Miami Marlins

Miami Marlins Fantasy Baseball Daily Bullpen Updates and Closer Depth Chart

*= closer-by-committee

Previous updates:

Miami Marlins – After the team traded Tanner Scott, Calvin Faucher received the majority share of saves until he was sidelined with an injury. Jesús Tinoco took over as the most trusted high-leverage option over the last six weeks and this may be a spring battle for roles. However, there’s no clear plan in place for the franchise making the closer role speculative at best. There will be aging veterans with closer experience, or the team could be aggressive and trade for a reliever like Camilo Doval, who needs a change in scenery. Stay tuned. 

September 29, 2024

Miami Marlins – Taking over at the bottom of the eighth, Anthony Bender stranded a runner and logged 1.1 scoreless innings, allowing a walk while striking out two for his first save. He threw 25 pitches (52 Strike%) and induced one whiff.

• Lake Bachar notched his fifth hold, tossing 1.1 scoreless, yielding a hit and a walk while striking out two.

Projected 2025 Hierarchy: *Calvin Faucher | *Jesús Tinoco | *Anthony Bender

*= closer-by-committee

September 28, 2024

Miami Marlins – Taking the baton from Xzavion Curry at the bottom of the sixth, Darren McCaughan logged four scoreless frames, scattering two hits and walking one while striking out four for his second save. He threw 54 pitches (37 strikes – 68.5 Strike%) and only induced two whiffs. He’s converted the team’s last two saves.

Hierarchy remains: Jesús Tinoco | Declan Cronin | Anthony Bender

September 24, 2024

Miami Marlins – Shutting the door on his third save, Jesús Tinoco stranded two runners in the eighth and retired all five batters, one via strikeout, finishing a three-run win over the Twins. He threw 19 pitches (11 strikes – 57.9 Strike%) and induced two whiffs. He’s been scoreless in six of his seven games in September, converting all three saves with seven strikeouts against zero walks.

• Anthony Bender allowed a hit and a walk while striking out one in a combined inning of relief, securing his 14th hold.
• Lake Bachar notched his third hold, giving up a hit and striking out two over 1.1 scoreless innings. 

Hierarchy remains: Jesús Tinoco | Declan Cronin | Anthony Bender

September 20, 2024

Miami Marlins – Securing his second save, Jesús Tinoco retired the side and preserved a one-run win over Atlanta. He threw eight pitches (75 Strike%) without a whiff against the 9-1-2 hitters. He’s been scoreless in four of five appearances this month and converted a save in two of his last three.

• Declan Cronin notched his eighth hold, tossing 1.1 clean frames and striking out two.
• Lake Bachar allowed two hits and a walk in two-thirds of the seventh, getting credit for his second hold.
• Anthony Bender retired both batters in the sixth for his 13th hold. 

Hierarchy remains: Jesús Tinoco | Declan Cronin | Anthony Bender

September 17, 2024

Miami Marlins – Finishing a win over the Dodgers, Jesús Tinoco allowed three hits and two earned runs while striking out one at the top of the ninth against his previous employer. He had been in his three previous outings this month and in 14 of 16 games with Miami. He threw 24 pitches (62.5 Strike%) and induced three whiffs in a non-save capacity.

• Declan Cronin notched his seventh hold, retiring the side in the eighth.
• Anthony Bender allowed a hit, an earned run, and a walk while striking out one in the seventh for his 12th hold.
• Lake Bachar worked around a hit and a walk while striking out one in the seventh, securing his first hold.
• Anthony Veneziano collected his first win, giving up a hit and an earned run while striking out two over 1.1 innings.

Hierarchy remains: Jesús Tinoco | Declan Cronin | Anthony Bender

September 12, 2024

Miami Marlins – Recording his first save of the season and second of his career, Jesús Tinoco fired two clean frames while striking out two, closing a three-run win over the Nationals. He threw 22 pitches (15 strikes – 68.2 Strike%) and induced three whiffs. He took over against the 3-4-5 pocket in the eighth and returned for the ninth. He’s been scoreless in six of his last seven with this save and 12 strikeouts versus one walk across eight innings.

• Anthony Bender retired his only batter in the seventh via strikeout and was awarded his fifth win.
• Anthony Veneziano logged 1.2 clean innings and recorded three strikeouts. 

Updated Hierarchy: Jesús Tinoco | Declan Cronin | Anthony Bender

September 6, 2024

Miami Marlins – Amid a flurry of roster moves, Calvin Faucher was placed on the 15-day injured list with a shoulder impingement. Over the last two weeks, John McMillon and Jesús Tinoco lead the team in Win Probability Added, and could share save chances. If Skip Schumaker anoints a replacement for the ninth inning, the hierarchy will adjust, but for now, it’s projected as a committee. 

Updated Hierarchy: *Jesús Tinoco | *Declan Cronin | *John McMillon

*= closer-by-committee

September 4, 2024

Miami Marlins – After firing a clean top of the tenth and recording two strikeouts, John McMillon collected his first win on a walk-off rally in the bottom of the inning. He threw 13 pitches (10 strikes – 76.9 Strike%) and generated four whiffs (30.8 SwStr%). He’s been scoreless in his last four appearances with six strikeouts versus one walk.

• Declan Cronin tossed a clean ninth and struck out one, keeping the game tied.
• Calvin Faucher suffered his second blown save, letting all three inherited runners score on a bases-loaded walk, an RBI fielder’s choice groundout, and James Woods’ RBI double.
• Mike Baumann allowed a hit, three earned runs, and a walk without recording an out in the eighth.
• Jesús Tinoco retired the side and recorded two strikeouts in the seventh for his sixth hold. 

Hierarchy remains: Calvin Faucher | John McMillon | Jesús Tinoco

September 1, 2024

Miami Marlins – Locking down his sixth save, Calvin Faucher fired a clean bottom of the ninth while striking out the side during a two-run win in San Francisco. He threw 13 pitches (10 strikes – 76.9 Strike%) and produced three whiffs (23.1 SwStr%). Since August 3, he’s been scoreless in ten of 12 appearances, converting all six save chances with 18 strikeouts versus four walks over 12 innings.

• John McMillon worked a clean eighth and recorded two strikeouts for his second hold.
• Mike Baumann notched his eighth hold with a clean seventh, striking out two.
• Xzavion Curry collected his first win, logging 1.2 clean frames and striking out two.

Updated Hierarchy: Calvin Faucher | John McMillon | Jesús Tinoco

August 31, 2024

Miami Marlins – Preserving a one-run win in San Francisco, Calvin Faucher fired a clean bottom of the ninth and recorded two strikeouts for his fifth save. He threw 12 pitches (7 strikes – 58.3 Strike%) and induced one whiff. He finished August with a loss and converted five of six save chances with 16 strikeouts against six walks.

• Jesús Tinoco allowed Michael Conforto’s solo home run and recorded two strikeouts in the eighth, getting credit for his fifth hold.
• John McMillon retired the side in the seventh, securing his first hold.
• Xzavion Curry stranded two runners while retiring both batters for his first hold.

Updated Hierarchy: Calvin Faucher | Andrew Nardi | Jesús Tinoco

August 27, 2024

Miami Marlins – Capping a come-from-behind Coors Field special, Calvin Faucher notched his fourth save with a clean bottom of the ninth, striking out the side against the Rockies’ 1-2-3 hitters. He threw 18 pitches (11 strikes – 61.1 Strike%) and induced three whiffs (16.7 SwStr%). This snapped a two-game streak of allowing at least a run, marking his first save since August 18.

• George Soriano collected his first win, retiring the side and striking out one in the bottom of the eighth ahead of his team’s five-run rally.
• Mike Baumann logged two scoreless frames and recorded one strikeout.

Hierarchy remains: Calvin Faucher | Andrew Nardi | Declan Cronin

August 18, 2024

Miami Marlins – Despite allowing consecutive singles leading off the bottom of the ninth, Calvin Faucher preserved a one-run win while securing his third save. After a failed bunt attempt, he retired Jeff McNeil via strikeout, Francisco Lindor on a long flyout to center, and Mark Vientos on a game-ending strikeout. Faucher threw 21 pitches (66.7 Strike%) and induced three whiffs (14.3 SwStr%). He’s been scoreless over his last six appearances and converted all three save chances with eight strikeouts against two walks.

• Declan Cronin notched his fourth hold. He stranded a runner and retired his only two batters faced in the eighth.
• Andrew Nardi collected his third win. He retired two of three batters via strikeout and issued a walk during his two-thirds combined innings.
• Jesús Tinoco logged 1.1 scoreless frames, allowing a walk and striking out four.

Updated Hierarchy: Calvin Faucher | Andrew Nardi | Declan Cronin

August 11, 2024

Miami Marlins – A wild finish resulted in George Soriano recording his first save. With a one-run lead and a runner on second, he recorded a strikeout against Luis Campusano.

• Andrew Nardi was credited with his 15th hold. He logged 1.2 innings, giving up three hits, including Donovan Solan’s pinch-hit two-run home run, and struck out two. Nardi threw 37 pitches (24 strikes – 64.9 Strike%) and induced three whiffs.
• Declan Cronin stranded a runner and retired both batters in the seventh via strikeout for his third hold.

Updated Hierarchy: Calvin Faucher | Andrew Nardi | George Soriano

August 7, 2024

Miami Marlins – Navigating around traffic in the top of the ninth, Calvin Faucher held on for his second save during a two-run win over the Reds. He issued Elly De La Cruz a walk with one out, gave up a Tyler Stephenson double, then bore down. He induced a shallow flyout by TJ Friedl, hit Ty France with a pitch, and then a game-ending groundout by Jeimer Candelario. He’s recorded a save in consecutive outings and been scoreless in four of his last five.

• Jesús Tinoco notched his second hold with a clean eighth and struck out one.
• Andrew Nardi struggled in the seventh. He took over with two runners on and one out, issued a walk, recorded a strikeout, and then allowed a grand slam, putting two earned on his ledger over two-thirds of an inning.

Updated Hierarchy: Calvin Faucher | Andrew Nardi | Anthony Bender

August 3, 2024

Miami Marlins – One day removed from suffering his first blown save, Calvin Faucher secured his first save of 2024 and second of his career, preserving a one-run win in Atlanta. He worked around a one-out Jarred Kelenic single with consecutive strikeouts. Faucher threw 18 pitches (13 strikes – 72.2 Strike%) and induced two whiffs.

• Andrew Nardi fired a clean eighth, recording two strikeouts versus the 4-5-6 lineup pocket on 13 pitches (9 strikes – 69.2 Strike%) and produced two whiffs.
• Anthony Bender retired the side in the seventh for his 11th hold.
• Declan Cronin collected his third win. He logged two scoreless innings, allowing a hit and a walk while striking out two.

Hierarchy remains: *Calvin Faucher | *Andrew Nardi | Anthony Bender

August 2, 2024

Miami Marlins – With a one-run lead in the bottom of the eighth, Calvin Faucher issued a lead-off walk, recorded an out on a sacrifice bunt, and gave up a game-tying Jorge Soler single. After a pinch runner entered, Faucher allowed an Austin Riley double, a Marcell Ozuna sacrifice fly and intentionally walked Matt Olson before an Orlando Arcia RBI single. He suffered his third loss and first blown save while giving up three hits, three earned runs, and two walks while striking out one.

• Andrew Nardi notched his 13th hold, issuing a walk and striking out three in a scoreless seventh.
• Anthony Bender secured his tenth hold, retiring the side and striking out two in the sixth.

Updated Hierarchy: *Calvin Faucher | *Andrew Nardi | Anthony Bender

July 31, 2024

Miami Marlins – Finishing a four-run win, Calvin Faucher retired the side and recorded a strikeout in the bottom of the ninth in Tampa Bay. He threw 14 pitches (8 strikes – 57.1 Strike%) and induced one whiff against the 6-7-8 hitters. Anthony Bender navigated around two hits and struck out two in a scoreless eighth, entering versus the top of the lineup. Jesús Tinoco worked a scoreless seventh, yielding a hit and striking out one. Andrew Nardi notched his 12th hold, allowing a hit and striking out three on 22 pitches (14 strikes – 63.6 Strike%) with six whiffs (27.3 SwStr%) while facing the 2-3-4-5 batters.

Hierarchy remains: Tanner Scott | Andrew Nardi | Huascar Brazobán

July 27, 2024

Miami Marlins – Logging three scoreless innings as the “bulk follower,” Bryan Hoeing collected his first win. He scattered three hits and allowed a walk while striking out three.

• Huascar Brazobán fired a clean eighth and recorded two strikeouts on 13 pitches (9 strikes – 69.2 Strike%) with one whiff. He’s been scoreless over his last six outings with seven strikeouts against zero walks across 7.1 innings.
• Calvin Faucher worked a scoreless ninth, giving up a hit and striking out one while finishing a four-run win in Milwaukee.

Hierarchy remains: Tanner Scott | Andrew Nardi | Huascar Brazobán

July 26, 2024

Miami Marlins – During a non-save appearance, Tanner Scott finished a four-run win in Milwaukee with a scoreless bottom of the ninth. He navigated around a lead-off William Contreras single and a one-out walk with consecutive strikeouts. He threw 19 pitches (11 strikes – 57.9 Strike%) and produced four whiffs (21.1 SwStr%). His scoreless streak reached 17 games, spanning 17.2 innings, with a 22:7 K:BB and ten saves since June 17.

• Huascar Brazobán secured his second hold, retiring the side and striking out one in the eighth. He owns a modest five-game scoreless streak.
• Anthony Bender logged 1.2 scoreless frames, striking out two, and recorded his ninth hold.

Updated Hierarchy: Tanner Scott | Andrew Nardi | Huascar Brazobán

July 25, 2024

Miami Marlins – Taking over in the top of the tenth, Calvin Faucher suffered his second loss. He allowed a lead-off single by Anthony Santander, then recorded a strikeout, followed by a go-ahead Ryan Mountcastle RBI single with two runners being thrown out on the bases, ending the inning. Faucher finished with two hits allowed and an unearned run.

• JT Chargois escaped with a scoreless ninth despite giving up three hits.
• Declan Croniin logged three scoreless frames, yielding a hit and striking out two.

Updated Hierarchy: Tanner Scott | Andrew Nardi | Calvin Faucher

July 23, 2024

Miami Marlins – Not only did Tanner Scott record his 17th save with a scoreless ninth against the Orioles, but he’s completed a reliever no-hitter with nine straight hitless appearances, spanning 9.2 innings since June 27. He worked around a hit-batter with two strikeouts during the three-run win, throwing 15 pitches (66.7 Strike%) with two whiffs (13.3 SwStr%). He’s been scoreless over his last 15 games with 19 strikeouts against five walks.

• A.J. Puk fired two clean frames while recording three strikeouts and collected his fourth win. He owns a 13-game scoreless streak with four wins and 22 strikeouts versus three walks across 15 innings.
• Andrew Nardi notched his 11th hold, retiring the side and striking out two in the sixth.

Hierarchy remains: Tanner Scott | A.J. Puk | Calvin Faucher

July 21, 2024

Miami Marlins – Locking down his 16th save, Tanner Scott fired a clean top of the ninth and recorded two strikeouts while closing out a two-run win over the Mets. He threw 16 pitches (13 strikes – 81.3 Strike%) and produced four whiffs (25 SwStr%). He extended his scoreless streak to 14 games, during which he posted 17 strikeouts against five walks while converting all eight save chances.

• Calvin Faucher notched his tenth hold, tossing a scoreless eighth. He gave up a hit and struck out two.
• A.J. Puk secured his seventh hold with a scoreless seventh, giving up a hit and striking out two.
• Declan Cronin collected his second win, logging 1.1 scoreless frames, yielding a hit and striking out three.

Updated Hierarchy: Tanner Scott | A.J. Puk | Calvin Faucher

July 19, 2024

Miami Marlins – Shutting the door on his 15th save, Tanner Scott retired all four batters and stranded two runners in the eighth, preserving a two-run win over the Mets. He threw 18 pitches (14 strikes – 77.8 Strike%) and generated four whiffs (22.2 SwStr%). He’s converted seven straight save chances and been scoreless over his last 13 appearances, spanning 13.2 innings with 15 strikeouts against five walks.

• Calvin Faucher was credited with his ninth hold, allowing a hit and a walk during two-thirds scoreless in the eighth.
• A.J. Puk tossed a scoreless seventh, walking one and striking out two for his sixth hold.
• Andrew Nardi was awarded his tenth hold despite allowing a home run.
• Anthony Bender collected his fourth win, giving up a hit and an earned run during his two-thirds innings of relief.

Hierarchy remains: Tanner Scott | A.J. Puk | Andrew Nardi

July 18, 2024

Miami Marlins – Open for business, the Marlins will be selling relievers. The biggest question here, how many will be traded? Pending free agent Tanner Scott will bring the biggest return, but will they also move A.J. Puk, Calvin Faucher, and others? How many relievers get moved may depend on how the teams on the fence handle their relievers in what projects as a slow moving market. 

Hierarchy remains: Tanner Scott | A.J. Puk | Andrew Nardi

July 14, 2024

Miami Marlins – Taking over in the bottom of the eighth with a runner on, Tanner Scott induced an inning-ending pop-out. In the ninth, he navigated around a lead-off walk and a two-out intentional walk of Santiago Espinal with a game-ending strikeout for his 14th save. He threw 20 pitches (60 Strike%) and produced four whiffs (20 SwStr%) while preserving a one-run win. He ends the first half with scoreless outings in 25 of his last 26, converting 10 of 11 save chances with 33 strikeouts against 12 walks.

• A.J. Puk collected his third win, tossing a scoreless combined inning. He allowed a walk and recorded a strikeout in his outing while stranding two runners in the seventh. He’s recorded a 10-game scoreless streak with 15 strikeouts against two walks in his last 11 innings.

Hierarchy remains: Tanner Scott | A.J. Puk | Andrew Nardi

July 9, 2024

Miami Marlins – Taking over at the bottom of the sixth, Huascar Brazóban induced an inning-ending double-play grounder, stranding two runners. During the seventh, he suffered his second loss, giving up a go-ahead two-run home run by Alex Bregman, scoring two unearned runs.

• A.J. Puk struck out Yordan Alvarez, his only batter faced in the seventh.
• Anthony Bender retired the side and recorded a strikeout in the eighth.

Hierarchy remains: Tanner Scott | A.J. Puk | Andrew Nardi

July 7, 2024

Miami Marlins – Benefiting from his team’s walk-off rally, JT Chargois collected his first win. He allowed a hit during a scoreless ninth with a one-run deficit.

• Andrew Nardi tossed a scoreless eighth, walking one and striking out one.
• Calvin Faucher logged two scoreless frames and recorded two strikeouts.
• Declan Cronin gave up two hits, two earned runs, and a walk while striking out two in the fifth. 

Updated Hierarchy: Tanner Scott | A.J. Puk | Andrew Nardi

July 6, 2024

Miami Marlins – Locking down his 13th save, Tanner Scott retired the side in the top of the ninth and recorded a strikeout while preserving a one-run win over the White Sox. He threw 14 pitches (71.4 Strike%) and produced three whiffs (21.4 SwStr%). He’s allowed two earned runs over his last 24 appearances since May 1 with 23 scoreless contests while converting nine of ten save chances with 30 strikeouts against 10 walks.

• A.J. Puk fired a clean eighth, striking out two for his fifth hold.
• Huascar Brazóban collected his first win, tossing two scoreless frames, issuing a walk, and striking out five.

Hierarchy remains: Tanner Scott | Andrew Nardi | A.J. Puk

July 4, 2024

Miami Marlins – Getting tagged with his first loss, Matt Andriese allowed two hits, including an RBI single by Tyler O’Neill in the top of the 12th, two runs (one earned), and a walk while striking out one.

• Calvin Faucher gave up two hits, two runs (one earned), and a walk with a strikeout in the 11th.
• Andrew Nardi tossed a scoreless tenth, issuing a walk and striking out two on 15 pitches (11 strikes – 73.3 Strike%) with three whiffs (20 SwStr%).
• Tanner Scott fired a clean ninth, striking out the side in a tied contest. He threw 17 pitches (13 strikes – 70.6 Strike%) and generated five whiffs (29.4 SwStr%).
• Anthony Bender worked a scoreless seventh, yielding a hit and striking out two.
• A.J. Puk logged 1.2 clean frames and recorded two strikeouts.

Updated Hierarchy: Tanner Scott | Andrew Nardi | A.J. Puk

June 29, 2024

Miami Marlins – Nailing down his 12th save, Tanner Scott fired a clean bottom of the ninth and recorded two strikeouts, preserving a one-run win in Philadelphia. He threw 12 pitches (66.7 Strike%) and induced two whiffs (16.7 SwStr%). He’s converted a save in four straight outings and been scoreless in 11 of 12 this month with 15 strikeouts against five walks across 13 innings.

• Calvin Faucher retired the side in the eighth and recorded two strikeouts versus the 3-4-5 lineup pocket for his eighth hold.
• A.J. Puk worked a scoreless seventh and issued a walk during his third hold.
• Andrew Nardi collected his first win, tossing 1.1 clean frames and striking out two.

Hierarchy remains: Tanner Scott | Calvin Faucher | A.J. Puk

June 27, 2024

(RP | MIA): Securing his 11th save, Tanner Scott retired the side in the bottom of the ninth while facing the first three hitters in the Phillies lineup. 

Analysis

Miami Marlins – Shutting the door on his 11th save, Tanner Scott fired a clean bottom of the ninth and recorded a strikeout versus the Phillies top of the lineup. He threw nine pitches (66.7 Strike%) and induced one whiff. Through 11 appearances in June, he’s been scoreless in ten with 13 strikeouts against five walks while converting four of five save chances. A.J. Puk notched his second hold, allowing a hit and striking out one in a scoreless eighth. Anthony Bender collected his third win and was tagged with his second blown save, giving up a lead-off double with the runner advancing on a throwing error and scoring on a sacrifice fly. This tied the game and put an unearned run on his ledger, but the Marlins rallied for two runs in the top of the eighth. 

Hierarchy remains: Tanner Scott | Calvin Faucher | Andrew Nardi

June 26, 2024

(RP | MIA): Entering with a 1-0 lead, Huascar Brazobán recorded two quick outs in the eighth, but then the wheels came off the bus. He allowed a Bobby Witt Jr. triple, followed by a game-tying RBI single by Vinnie Pasquantino, who was replaced by Dairon Blanco; after a stolen base, he scored the go-ahead run on a Salvador Perez double. Consecutive singles produced another run and Brazobán’s removal. He finished with five hits allowed, five earned runs, and one strikeout over two-thirds of an inning.

Hierarchy remains: Tanner Scott | Calvin Faucher | Andrew Nardi

June 25, 2024

(RP | MIA): Recording his tenth save, Tanner Scott preserved a one-run win over the Royals on the road, working around a hit for a scoreless ninth. 

Analysis

Miami Marlins – Preserving a one-run win and recording his tenth save, Tanner Scott worked a scoreless bottom of the ninth in Kansas City. He navigated around a one-out single with a lineout and a game-ending groundout. He’s been scoreless in nine of ten outings this month, converting three of four save chances. Calvin Faucher notched his seventh hold, retiring the side in the eighth and striking out one. Huascar Brazobán nailed down his first hold, retiring both batters, one via strikeout in the seventh. A.J. Puk collected his second win, firing 1.1 clean innings and striking out two.

Hierarchy remains: Tanner Scott | Calvin Faucher | Andrew Nardi

June 23, 2024

(RP | MIA): Despite loading the bases, Tanner Scott induced a game-ending lineout by Julio Rodríguez, closing out his ninth save. He gave up two hits and a walk while striking out one. 

Analysis

Miami Marlins – Hanging on for his ninth save, Tanner Scott worked himself into and out of trouble. He allowed a lead-off single, followed by a walk, before retiring Ryan Bliss on a first-pitch flyout. This settled Scott in. He recorded a strikeout, gave up a bloop single by Dylan Moore, loaded the bases, and coaxed a game-ending lineout by Julio Rodríguez, preserving the two-run win. He threw 22 pitches (16 strikes – 72.7 Strike%) and produced five whiffs (22.7 SwStr%). He’s been scoreless in eight of nine games this month with 12 strikeouts against five walks. Calvin Faucher fired a clean eighth and recorded two strikeouts for his sixth hold. Andrew Nardi let his only inherited runner score, allowing a hit and striking out one over one-third scoreless while securing his seventh hold. A.J. Puk collected his first win, firing two clean frames between the fifth and sixth while striking out two.

Hierarchy remains: Tanner Scott | Calvin Faucher | Andrew Nardi

June 21, 2024

(RP | MIA): After retiring the side in the top of the tenth, Anthony Bender collected his second win on his team’s third consecutive walk-off win at home. 

Analysis

Miami Marlins – Entering in the top of the tenth, Anthony Bender retired the side and collected his second win courtesy of a walk-off rally in the bottom of the inning. Tanner Scott navigated around a lead-off walk by inducing a double play groundout and an inning-ending groundout for a scoreless outing. He threw 10 pitches (60 Strike%) and induced one whiff. Since the start of May, he’s recorded 17 scoreless appearances over 18 games with 22 strikeouts against eight walks. Calvin Faucher stranded two runners and retired his only batter faced via strikeout. Andrew Nardi allowed two hits and recorded two strikeouts during two-thirds of the eighth. Huascar Brazonán turned in two-thirds scoreless in the seventh with two strikeouts.

Hierarchy remains: Tanner Scott | Calvin Faucher | Andrew Nardi

June 19, 2024

(RP | MIA): Benefiting from a walk-off rally, Tanner Scott collected his sixth win while appearing in a third straight game. He worked around a lead-off single in the top of the ninth for a scoreless inning and recorded one strikeout, keeping the game tied. 

Analysis

Miami Marlins – Appearing for a third straight contest, Tanner Scott collected his sixth win, benefiting from the Marlins’ seventh walk-off this season. He navigated around a lead-off single with a pop-out, a groundout, and a strikeout for a scoreless ninth. He threw 17 pitches (11 strikes – 64.7 Strike%) and induced two whiffs. Since the start of May, he’s recorded a scoreless outing in 16 of 17 games with 22 strikeouts versus eight walks across 18.1 innings. Huascar Brazobán suffered his first blown save on an error by Jake Burger, letting an inherited runner score. Brazobán logged 1.1 scoreless innings, hitting a batter and striking out two. A.J. Puk worked 1.2 innings, giving up a hit and an unearned run while striking out three.

Hierarchy remains: Tanner Scott | Calvin Faucher | Andrew Nardi

June 18, 2024

(RP | MIA): Despite letting the “place” runner score on consecutive flyouts in the top of the tenth, Calvin Faucher collected his second courtesy of a walk-off rally in the bottom of the inning. 

Analysis

Miami Marlins – Benefiting from a walk-off in the bottom of the tenth, Calvin Faucher collected his second win. He allowed a flyout and a sacrifice fly, scoring the “place” runner, then recorded an inning-ending strikeout. Tanner Scott fired a clean ninth and struck out one, keeping the score tied. He threw 15 pitches (60 Strike%) and produced three whiffs (20 SwStr%). He’s been scoreless in 15 of 16 games since the start of May, with 21 strikeouts versus eight walks across 17.1 innings. Andrew Nardi retired the side in the eighth. JT Chargois worked a scoreless seventh, allowing a hit and a walk while striking out one. Kent Emanuel logged two scoreless frames, yielding a hit and striking out two.

Updated Hierarchy: Tanner Scott | Calvin Faucher | Andrew Nardi

June 17, 2024

(RP | MIA): During a tied game in the top of the 12th, A.J. Puk allowed a go-ahead two-run home run by Masyn Winn, resulting in his eighth loss. 

Analysis

Miami Marlins – Suffering his eighth loss, A.J. Puk gave up a go-ahead two-run home run by Masyn Winn in the top of the 12th. He finished with two hits against and two runs (one earned). Andrew Nardi let the “place” runner score in the 11th on a sacrifice fly. Declan Cronin tossed a clean tenth, striking out one. Tanner Scott worked a scoreless ninth, issuing a walk and striking out one. He threw 18 pitches (55.6 Strike%) and produced two whiffs (11.1 SwStr%). He’s been scoreless in 14 of his 15 appearances since the start of May, with four wins, four saves, and a 20:8 K:BB across 16.1 innings. Kent Emanuel retired his only batter in the eighth, stranding two runners. Calvin Faucher went nuclear, giving up three hits, three earned runs, two walks, and two wild pitches while striking out over two-thirds of the eighth. Huascar Brazobán fired a clean seventh, striking out two.

Updated Hierarchy: Tanner Scott | Declan Cronin | A.J. Puk

June 13, 2024

(RP | MIA): Not only did Tanner Scott have his 13-game scoreless streak snapped, but he suffered his fifth loss and second blown save, coughing up a one-run lead in the bottom of the ninth. His outing began with a lead-off walk, and after recording a strikeout, he allowed J.D. Martinez to walk off a two-run home run.  

Analysis

Miami Marlins – Entering the bottom of the ninth with a one-run lead, Tanner Scott issued a lead-off walk to Francisco Lindor, a leverage no-no, struck out Brandon Nimmo, and served up the game-winning home run. This snapped Scott’s 13-game scoreless streak, handing him his fifth loss and second blown save. He threw 15 pitches (40 Strike%) and produced three whiffs (20 SwStr%). Calvin Faucher notched his fifth hold, firing 1.1 clean frames and striking out one for his fifth hold. Anthony Bender was credited for his seventh hold, allowing a hit, an earned run, and two walks before being removed.

Updated Hierarchy: Tanner Scott | Calvin Faucher | A.J. Puk

June 11, 2024

(RP | MIA): Logging two scoreless frames, Tanner Scott racked up three strikeouts and recorded his eighth save while preserving a two-run win over the Mets. 

Analysis

Miami Marlins – Slamming the door on his eighth save, Tanner Scott fired two clean innings and recorded three strikeouts, preserving a two-run win against the Mets. He threw 31 pitches (22 strikes – 71 Strike%) and produced four whiffs (12.9 SwStr%). He owns a 13-game scoreless streak since May 1, recording four wins and four saves with 18 strikeouts versus six walks across 15 innings. Andrew Nardi retired both batters faced, one via strikeout for his sixth hold. Anthony Bender registered his sixth hold, issuing a walk during two-thirds scoreless combined innings.

Hierarchy remains: Tanner Scott | A.J. Puk| Anthony Bender

June 9, 2024

(RP | MIA):  In a tied game, A.J. Puk gave up three hits, culminating in a go-ahead three-run home run by Tyler Freeman, resulting in his seventh loss. He only recorded one out in the top of the seventh.

Hierarchy remains: Tanner Scott | A.J. Puk| Anthony Bender

June 7, 2024

(RP | MIA): With the game tied, Tanner Scott was pressed into duty with two runners on and one out. He induced an inning-ending double play, then retired the side in the ninth, two via strikeout en route to his third win. 

Analysis

Miami Marlins – Taking over in the top of the eighth with two runners on during a tied game, Tanner Scott stranded them and logged 1.2 clean frames, recording two strikeouts. He collected his fifth win courtesy of a one-run rally eighth. He threw 10 pitches (90 Strike%) and generated four whiffs (40 SwStr%). This marked his third consecutive clean outing, and he’s been scoreless over his last 12 games, recording 15 strikeouts against six walks through 13 innings. Calvin Faucher gave up a hit and a walk over one-third of the eighth. A.J. Puk turned in a clean seventh, striking out one. Andrew Nardi retired the side in the sixth. Erasmo Ramírez tossed 2.2 scoreless innings, allowing a hit and a walk while striking out two.

Hierarchy remains: Tanner Scott | A.J. Puk| Anthony Bender

June 4, 2024

(RP | MIA): Appearing during a loss, Tanner Scott navigated around a one-out walk (Brandon Lowe) and a single by Amed Rosario with consecutive strikeouts. Scott threw 23 pitches (15 strikes – 65.2 Strike%) and generated six whiffs (26.1 SwStr%). He’s riding an 11-game scoreless streak, during which he’s recorded 13 strikeouts against six walks with three wins and three saves over 11.1 innings.

Hierarchy remains: Tanner Scott | A.J. Puk| Anthony Bender

May 31, 2024

(RP | MIA): Entering the game in the top of the fifth, Declan Cronin earned his fifth win, tossing 1.1 clean frames and recording one strikeout. 

Analysis

Miami Marlins – Taking over in the fifth, Declan Cronin collected his fifth win, retiring all four batters faced and striking out one. A.J. Puk took the baton, logging 1.2 clean frames and recording two strikeouts for his first hold. He threw 15 pitches (80 Strike%) and produced four whiffs (26.7 SwStr%). Calvin Faucher gave up a hit during a scoreless eighth. Burch Smith finished the six-run win with a scoreless ninth, yielding a hit.

Hierarchy remains: Tanner Scott | A.J. Puk| Anthony Bender

May 29, 2024

(RP | MIA): Tanner Scott retired the side in the bottom of the ninth on nine pitches (77.8 Strike%) and induced one whiff. He’s turned in back-to-back clean outings and remains unscored upon through 10 games in May with an 11:5 K:BB over 10.1 innings.

Hierarchy remains (linear saves but set-up roles remain in flux): Tanner Scott | A.J. Puk| Anthony Bender

May 25, 2024

(RP | MIA): Rounding into form, Tanner Scott nailed down his seventh save with a clean ninth, and one strikeout against Arizona, preserving a two-run win. 

Analysis

Miami Marlins – Locking down his seventh save, Tanner Scott retired the side in the bottom of the ninth, recording one strikeout and preserving his team’s two-run win. He threw 15 pitches (66.7 Strike%) and induced one whiff. He owns a nine-game scoreless streak in May with 11 strikeouts against five walks with a 0.97 WHIP over 9.1 innings. Calvin Faucher gave up a hit and an earned run while striking out two for his fourth hold. Declan Cronin tossed a scoreless seventh, yielding a hit and striking out one while securing his second hold. 

Hierarchy remains (linear saves but set-up roles remain in flux): Tanner Scott | A.J. Puk| Anthony Bender

May 22, 2024

(RP | MIA): Preserving a shutout win over the Brewers, Tanner Scott recorded his sixth save, giving up a hit and striking out one. 

Analysis

Miami Marlins – Finishing a 1-0 win over Milwaukee, Tanner Scott tossed a scoreless top of the ninth, allowing a two-out single by William Contreras before inducing a game-ending groundout by Christian Yelich for his sixth save. He threw 16 pitches (62.5 Strike%) and induced two whiffs (12.5 SwStr%). It has not always been pretty, but he’s been scoreless through eight appearances in May, with 10 strikeouts against five walks while collecting three wins and converting both save chances.

Hierarchy remains: Tanner Scott | A.J. Puk| Anthony Bender

May 21, 2024

(RP | MIA): Suffering his fifth loss and first blown save, A.J. Puk allowed three hits, three earned runs, and a walk in the top of the eighth against Milwaukee.

Hierarchy remains: Tanner Scott | A.J. Puk| Anthony Bender

May 20, 2024

(RP | MIA): Navigating around a lead-off walk in the top of the tenth, Tanner Scott retired the next three batters for a scoreless outing and collected his fourth following a walk-off rally in the bottom of the inning. 

Analysis

Miami Marlins – After navigating around a lead-off walk, Tanner Scott recorded an out on a sacrifice bunt, a strikeout, and an inning-ending lineout for a scoreless top of the tenth. He collected his fourth win courtesy of a walk-off rally in the bottom of the frame. He’s earned a win in three of his last four outings and has been scoreless in seven outings in May with nine strikeouts versus five walks over 7.1 innings. Andrew Nardi stranded two runners despite issuing a walk during his one-third of the ninth. Declan Cronin logged 1.2 scoreless innings, giving up two hits and a walk while striking out two.

Hierarchy remains: Tanner Scott | A.J. Puk| Anthony Bender

May 19, 2024

(RP | MIA): Appearing during a loss, A.J. Puk stranded a runner in the sixth and retired four of five batters, issuing a walk and striking out one. He threw 25 pitches (68 Strike%) and produced three whiffs (SwStr%).

Hierarchy remains: Tanner Scott | A.J. Puk| Anthony Bender

May 18, 2024

(RP | MIA): After retiring the side in order in the top of the tenth, Tanner Scott collected his third win during a walk-off rally in the bottom of the frame. 

Analysis

Miami Marlins – Taking over a tied game in the top of the tenth, Tanner Scott retired the side while stranding the “place” runner with two groundouts and a strikeout. He collected his third win courtesy of a walk-off rally in the bottom of the inning. He threw 13 pitches (7 strikes – 53.8 Strike%) with three whiffs (23.1 SwStr%) against the Mets’ 2-3-4 lineup pocket. He’s recorded six scoreless appearances in May with eight strikeouts versus four walks over 6.1 innings. Andrew Nardi stranded two runners and retired his only batter faced in the ninth. Calvin Faucher gave up three hits, two earned runs, and a walk while striking out one in two-thirds of the ninth. Anthony Maldonado logged two scoreless frames, yielding a hit.

Hierarchy remains: Tanner Scott | A.J. Puk| Anthony Bender

May 15, 2024

(RP | MIA): Appearing for a third time in the last four days, Tanner Scott held on for his fifth save, navigating around two hits with a game-ending strikeout, preserving a combined shutout. 

Analysis

Miami Marlins – Even though he logged 58 pitches in two previous outings over three days, Tanner Scott took over in the ninth and preserved a combined shutout while recording his fifth save of the season. After retiring his first two batters faced, he allowed consecutive two-out singles before a game-ending strikeout of Riley Greene. Scott threw 20 pitches (85 Strike%) and produced two whiffs. This marked his first save since April 21 and his fifth straight scoreless outing in May. Calvin Faucher notched his third hold, tossing a scoreless eighth while yielding a hit. Andrew Nardi secured his fifth hold, retiring his only batter in the seventh, stranding an inherited runner. Declan Cronin logged 1.2 scoreless frames, allowing a hit and striking out one for his first hold.

Hierarchy remains: Tanner Scott | A.J. Puk| Anthony Bender

May 14, 2024

(RP | MIA): Closing out a 1-0 win in Detroit, A.J. Puk retired the side in the bottom of the tenth for his first save this season. 

Analysis

Miami Marlins – Back from the injured list, and no longer in the rotation, A.J. Puk fired a clean bottom of the tenth, stranding the “place” runner and recording his first save of the season, and first since July 8, 2023, preserving a one-run shutout. He threw 13 pitches (9 strikes – 69.2 Strike%) without a whiff. Tanner Scott collected his second win, turning in a scoreless bottom of the ninth despite giving up a hit and a walk, with two strikeouts. He’s one day removed from a 39-pitch outing and logged 19 in this outing (11 strikes – 57.9 Strike%) while generating seven whiffs (36.8 SwStr%). 

Hierarchy remains: Tanner Scott | A.J. Puk| Anthony Bender

May 13, 2024

(RP | MIA): Ceding the lead in the bottom of the eighth, Anthony Maldonado suffered his first loss, and his first blown save, allowing three hits, including a go-ahead, two-run home run by Spencer Torkelson. He also recorded two strikeouts, but the damage had been done.

Updated Hierarchy: Tanner Scott | A.J. Puk| Anthony Bender

May 12, 2024

(RP | MIA): Escaping with a scoreless top of the tenth, Anthony Bender collected his first win courtesy of a walk-off rally in the bottom of the inning. 

Analysis

Miami Marlins – After navigating around two walks, one intentional (Bryce Harper), Anthony Bender collected his first win with a scoreless top of the tenth. He threw 23 pitches (14 strikes – 60.9 Strike%) and produced three whiffs (13 SwStr%) while striking out one. Tanner Scott tossed two scoreless frames, allowing two walks and striking out one on 39 pitches (21 strikes – 53.8 Strike%) with five whiffs (12.8 SwStr%). Calvin Faucher retired the side in the seventh. Andrew Nardi let both inherited runners score in the sixth, and an earned run on his ledger, giving up a two-RBI triple and a sacrifice fly during his two-thirds of an inning.

Updated Hierarchy: Tanner Scott | Andrew Nardi | Anthony Bender

May 7, 2024

(RP | MIA): Amid trade rumors, Tanner Scott fired a clean bottom of the eighth during a six-run loss, striking out the side against the Dodgers’ 6-7-8 lineup pocket. He threw 14 pitches (11 strikes – 78.6 Strike%) and produced three whiffs (21.4 SwStr%). After early command issues, he owns a 74 strike percentage with seven strikeouts against two walks over his last seven games, spanning 5.1 innings.

Hierarchy remains: Tanner Scott | Andrew Nardi | Anthony Maldonado

May 5, 2024

(RP | MIA): Taking over in the bottom of the fifth, Burch Smith earned his second win,  retiring the side and striking out one.

Hierarchy remains: Tanner Scott | Andrew Nardi | Anthony Maldonado

May 2, 2024

(RP| MIA): Collecting his first win via a walk-off rally, Burch Smith retired the side in the top of the tenth while striking out two against the Rockies. 

Analysis

Miami Marlins – Benefiting from a walk-off in the bottom of the tenth, Burch Smith collected his first win of the season, firing a clean top of the frame while striking out two. He’s been scoreless in six of his last seven outings. Anthony Maldonado navigated around two hits and a walk while striking out one in a scoreless ninth. He threw 19 pitches (11 strikes – 57.9 Strike%) and generated five whiffs (26.3 SwStr%) keeping the game tied. Anthony Bender worked a scoreless eighth, walking one and striking out one. Andrew Nardi fired a clean seventh, striking out two on nine pitches (88.8 Strike%) with three whiffs (33.3 SwStr%). Calvin Faucher logged two scoreless frames, striking out one.

Hierarchy remains: Tanner Scott | Andrew Nardi | Anthony Maldonado

May 1, 2024

(RP | MIA): Rookie Anthony Maldonado recorded his first major league save, firing a clean top of the ninth and striking out one against the Rockies. 

Analysis

Miami Marlins – Handed a three-run lead in the top of the ninth, Anthony Maldonado retired the side and recorded a strikeout for his first career major league save. He threw 13 pitches (9 strikes – 69.2 Strike%) and induced two whiffs (15.4 SwStr%). Tanner Scott stranded a runner in the eighth, appearing for a third straight game despite issuing a walk. Bryan Hoeing secured his second hold, tossing 1.2 scoreless frames and yielding a hit.

Updated hierarchy: Tanner Scott | Andrew Nardi | Anthony Maldonado

April 30, 2024

(RP | MIA): Although let the “place” runner score on a two-out double by Ryan McMahon in the top of the tenth, Tanner Scott collected his first win courtesy of a walk-off rally in the bottom of the frame. 

Analysis

Miami Marlins – Taking over the top of the tenth, Tanner Scott recorded two quick outs, then allowed an RBI double by Ryan McMahon, and finished with two strikeouts, along with issuing an intentional walk (Elias Díaz). Despite this, Scott collected his first win courtesy of a walk-off in the bottom of the frame. He threw 13 pitches (9 strikes – 69.2 Strike%) and generated four whiffs (30.8 SwStr%). Erasmo Ramírez worked a clean ninth, striking out two. Anthony Bender tossed a clean eighth, striking out one. Declan Cronin logged two scoreless frames, yielding a hit and striking out three.

Hierarchy remains: Tanner Scott | Andrew Nardi | Calvin Faucher

April 29, 2024

(RP | MIA): Appearing during a loss, Tanner Scott fired a clean top of the ninth while facing the top of the Nationals lineup, throwing 10 pitches (70 Strike%).

Hierarchy remains: Tanner Scott | Andrew Nardi | Calvin Faucher

April 26, 2024

Miami Marlins – Taking over in the sixth with a runner on, Andrew Nardi could not strand him, allowing a hit and a walk, while striking out one during his third blown save. Bryan Hoeing tossed a clean seventh, striking out two. Calvin Faucher suffered his first loss, giving up three hits, two earned runs, and two walks while striking out one over two-thirds of the eighth. Burch Smith turned in 1.1 scoreless innings, stranded all three inherited runners in the eighth, and retired the side in the top of the ninth. 

Hierarchy remains: Tanner Scott | Andrew Nardi | Calvin Faucher

April 24, 2024

Miami Marlins – Taking over the bottom of the tenth, Tanner Scott suffered his fourth loss, allowing a walk-off RBI double by Michael Harris II, throwing only two pitches during his outing. This snapped Scott’s modest three-game scoreless streak. He owns a 1.78 WHIP over 10.2 innings this season. Calvin Faucher logged two scoreless frames, giving up two hits and a walk while striking out two. Andrew Nardi tossed a scoreless seventh, walking one and striking out three. Bryan Hoeing worked two clean innings, striking out one.

Hierarchy remains: Tanner Scott | Andrew Nardi | Calvin Faucher

April 21, 2024

Miami Marlins – Perhaps turning a corner, Tanner Scott nailed down his fourth save, and second in as many days, firing a clean bottom of the ninth, and striking out one. He threw 11 pitches (72.7 Strike%) and induced one whiff. He owns a modest three-game scoreless streak with three strikeouts versus two walks over his last three innings. Calvin Faucher secured his second hold, tossing a clean eighth and striking out one. Andrew Nardi turned in a clean seventh, striking out one for his fourth hold. Bryan Hoeing gave up a hit and recorded a strikeout in a scoreless sixth for his first hold.

Hierarchy remains: Tanner Scott | Andrew Nardi | Calvin Faucher

April 20, 2024

Miami Marlins – (Game 1): The good news is Tanner Scott threw strikes, landing 13 of his 16 pitches (81.3 Strike%) in the strike zone and he produced three whiffs (18.8 SwStr%). However, he did give up two hits leading off the ninth before recording an out on a sacrifice bunt, a strikeout, and then a game-ending ground-out by Nico Hoerner for his third save. It’s been a rough start to the season here’s hoping he’s turning a corner. Calvin Faucher logged two scoreless innings, scattering two hits and striking out four while collecting his first win.

(Game 2): Taking over in the sixth, Anthony Bender suffered his first loss and first blown save, allowing four hits, three earned runs, and a walk over two-thirds of an inning. Bryan Hoeing logged 1.1 scoreless innings, walking one and striking out one.

Updated hierarchy: Tanner Scott | Andrew Nardi | Calvin Faucher

April 16, 2024

Miami Marlins – It was a struggle, but Tanner Scott registered his second save, navigating around two walks and striking out one during a scoreless ninth, finishing off a three-run over the Giants. He threw 15 pitches (7 strikes – 46.7 Strike%) and produced one whiff. He still owns a negative K-BB percentage (8:12 K:BB) through his first 8.2 innings. Calvin Faucher recorded his first hold, working 1.2 scoreless frames, yielding a hit, and striking out two. Burch Smith gets credit for his first hold despite giving up three hits and an earned run over one-third of the seventh. 

Updated hierarchy: Tanner Scott | Andrew Nardi | Anthony Bender

April 15, 2024

Miami Marlins – On a day that ends in “y”, the bullpen could not preserve a lead. George Soriano suffered his first loss while getting credit for his second hold, allowing a hit, three earned runs, a hit batter, and two walks during his two-thirds of the seventh. Andrew Nardi could not stem the tide, letting both inherited runners score on consecutive singles before recording an out. Bryan Hoeing logged two scoreless innings, walking one and striking out two.

Updated hierarchy: *Tanner Scott | *Andrew Nardi | *Anthony Bender

*= closer-by-committee

April 14, 2024

Miami Marlins – Facing the top of Atlanta’s lineup, Tanner Scott allowed a lead-off single by Ronald Acuña Jr., retired Ozzie Albies via strikeout, and Austin Riley on a line-out to center. However, he issued a two-out walk to Matt Olson and gave up a two-strike, go-ahead three-run home run by Marcell Ozuna. His final line, two hits allowed, three earned runs, and a walk while striking out one, resulting in his third loss and first blown save. Andrew Nardi notched his third hold, firing a clean eighth, and striking out the side on 12 pitches (83.3 Strike%) with four whiffs (33.3 SwStr%). Anthony Bender was credited with his fourth hold despite giving up three hits and an earned run while striking out one in the seventh. Sixto Sánchez tossed a scoreless sixth, walking one and striking out one. There may be a shift in the leverage ladder after this contest. Scott was one out from the save, but could not finish it. Nardi has been frustrating, but his underlying data suggests some bad luck, he could be a sneaky add. 

Updated hierarchy: *Tanner Scott | *Andrew Nardi | *Anthony Bender

*= closer-by-committee

April 13, 2024

Miami Marlins –  It was not a save appearance, but fantasy players will happily accept a scoreless outing by Tanner Scott. He wrapped up a 5-1 win against Atlanta, throwing 12 pitches (83.3 Strike%) and inducing two whiffs (16.7 SwStr%) facing the 4-5-6 lineup pocket. This lowered his WHIP to 1.65 and he’s recorded six strikeouts versus nine walks through his first 6.2 innings. Anthony Bender fired a clean eighth, striking out two on 15 pitches (66.7 Strike%) and producing two whiffs (13.3 SwStr%) against the top of the batting order. Calvin Faucher worked a clean seventh, striking out one.

Updated hierarchy: Tanner Scott | Anthony Bender | Andrew Nardi

April 10, 2024

Miami Marlins –  Battling his command issues again, Tanner Scott weathered another traffic-infused outing and recorded his first save this year. He took over in the eighth with a runner at second and issued a walk before retiring the next two hitters. In the ninth, he allowed a one-out single, then issued consecutive two-out walks before inducing a game-ending flyout by Aaron Judge. Scott threw 34 pitches (14 strikes – 41.2 Strike%) and produced one whiff. He’s posted a 1.94 WHIP with six strikeouts against nine walks over 5.2 innings. Anthony Bender gave up a hit, an earned run, and a walk while striking out one in one-third of the eighth for his third hold. Andrew Nardi fired a clean seventh, striking out one for his second hold. Bryan Hoeing served up a solo home run (Giancarlo Stanton), and recorded two strikeouts in the sixth.

Hierarchy remains: Tanner Scott | Andrew Nardi | Anthony Bender

April 6, 2024

Miami Marlins – The good news, is Tanner Scott faced three hitters, though he received an assist from his catcher. Taking over against the 6-7-8 pocket in the bottom of the eighth of an eventual loss, he worked around an error by his second baseman with a game-ending caught stealing. But, he threw 11 pitches (63.6 Strike%) without a whiff and displayed no command issues.

Hierarchy remains: Tanner Scott | Andrew Nardi | Anthony Bender

April 1, 2024

Miami Marlins – In a curious leverage pattern, Tanner Scott took over a tied game in the top of the eighth against the top of the Angels lineup, which features three right-handed hitters in the top four spots. Scott issued three straight walks, let the go-ahead run score on a fielder’s choice groundout, and then retired the next two hitters en route to his second loss. He threw 27 pitches (14 strikes – 51.9 Strike%) with no whiffs. In the ninth, Anthony Bender allowed two hits and two earned runs while striking out one over two-thirds of an inning. Burch Smith recorded the last out in the inning after walking a batter. In the seventh, Andrew Nardi gave up a hit and recorded a strikeout in a scoreless outing. George Soriano was tagged with his first blown save, serving up two solo home runs and striking out one in the sixth.

March 31, 2024

Miami Marlins – Things went awry early on for Tanner Scott. He took over a tied game in the top of the 10th, but did not field a bunt cleanly, allowing runners on the corners, and never recovered, suffering his first loss. He gave up a hit (squeeze bunt), two runs (zero earned), and a walk while striking out three. He threw 27 pitches (20 strikes – 74.1 Strike%) and induced two whiffs. He owns a 2.00 WHIP with a 5:3 K:BB over his first two innings. Vladimir Gutierrez suffered his first blown save, allowing three hits, three earned runs, and two walks while striking out four over four innings.

March 28, 2024

Miami Marlins – Despite a heroic effort, Declan Cronin suffered his first loss, allowing a hit, an unearned run, and two walks (one intentional) while striking out three, covering all three extra stanzas. Tanner Scott worked a scoreless ninth, walking two and striking out two. He threw 26 pitches (11 strikes – 42.3 Strike%) and induced four whiffs (15.4 SwStr%). Sixto Sánchez made his first major league appearance since the NLDS in 2020, allowing a game-tying home run (Oneil Cruz), resulting in his first blown save. Anthony Bender held on for his first hold, tossing a scoreless seventh, giving up a hit and a walk while striking out one. Andrew Nardi got credit for a hold but gave up two hits and two earned runs while recording two strikeouts over two-thirds-combined innings.

March 24, 2024

Miami Marlins – Collecting his first win, Andrew Nardi logged 1.2 innings, giving up three hits and an earned run while striking out four. Tanner Scott secured his first spring hold, tossing 1.1 scoreless frames, allowing a hit, and striking out three. He threw 20 pitches (65 Strike%) and produced seven whiffs (35 SwStr%). He owns a five-game scoreless streak with six strikeouts against two walks over his last 4.2 innings. Sixto Sánchez worked two scoreless innings, yielding two hits and striking out four. Anthony Bender retired the side in order in the ninth.

March 20, 2024

Miami Marlins – Taking over a bases-loaded situation, Tanner Scott stranded two of three runners, retiring both batters faced. He gave up a sacrifice fly by Luke Voit then induced an inning-ending ground out. Scott threw three pitches (66.7 Strike%) without a whiff. More importantly, he appeared on back-to-back days and has been scoreless in his last four outings.

March 19, 2024

Miami Marlins – During a split-squad game against the Astros, Tanner Scott tossed a scoreless eighth, yielding a hit. He’s been scoreless in his last three outings. Anthony Bender worked a scoreless ninth, allowing a hit and striking out one. In their other contest against St. Louis, Andrew Nardi got credit for his third hold, navigating around two walks while striking out one. Through six outings, he owns a 1.41 WHIP with two strikeouts against seven walks. In this game, his four-seam fastball was 2.7 m.p.h. below last year’s average velocity.

March 9, 2024

Miami Marlins – After throwing 17 pitches during his inning of work on Friday night, Sixto Sánchez did not return for a second. This could be a sneak preview of his usage pattern this season according to Christian De Nicola of MLB.com in her game recap. Skip Schumaker speaks about Sánchez responding well after his last relief outing, and he could be stretched out for multiple-inning outings, but may fit the roster best as a leverage ladder option. If his velocity continues rising, this role may suit the oft-injured pitcher well. Stay tune. 

March 4, 2024

Miami Marlins – Tanner Scott pitches for Miami, F.L.A., spiked a bunch of sliders on Monday, walked four batters, did not record an out, saying hey Skip, take a walk on the wild side. In all seriousness, it was a rough outing against the Yankees resulting in a loss. Scott faced four batters, allowed three earned runs, and did not record an out while throwing 25 pitches (36 Strike percentage) with one whiff. Better days lie ahead, but for a reliever with command issues in his past, this will not placate fantasy players with concerns about regression. 

March 2, 2024

Miami Marlins – Out of minor league options, Sixto Sánchez could break camp with Miami as a reliever. He made his spring debut on Saturday, firing a clean fifth and striking out one for his first hold. He threw 14 pitches (71.4 Strike percentage) and induced two whiffs (14.3 swinging strike percentage). It’s tough not rooting for him after all he’s been through.

February 24, 2024

Miami Marlins — In Christina De Nicola’s notes about spring competitions, she highlights Anthony Bender looking good early on. It also discusses Sixto Sánchez getting better odds of making the team as a reliever this season, which makes those of us with Dad bods proud. He made his spring debut, firing a clean fifth and striking out one for his first hold. He threw 14 pitches (71.4 Strike percentage) and induced two whiffs (14.3 swinging strike percentage). It’s tough not rooting for him after all he’s been through.

October 1, 2023
Miami Marlins — Tanner Scott recorded the last four outs of a Marlins 7-5 win to pick up his 12th save of the season.  The win also clinched a playoff spot and MLB has decided that they will not resume their suspended game against the Mets. 

Hierarchy remains: Scott | Nardi | Robertson

September 30, 2023
Miami Marlins — Tanner Scott locked up his 11th save on the year last night, but the most important news out of Miami is that they will finish their game against the Mets which was suspended on Thursday as long as it matters for playoff seeding. It could be a play-in inning if things break the wrong way this weekend, but may only be to determine where Miami will be traveling to. Miami had just taken a 1 run lead in the top of the 9th inning, meaning Monday’s resumption will almost certainly be a save situation, If your league counts it (and you need one hero save), pay attention to Tanner Scott’s usage. If Scott pitches today and tomorrow he will have gone 3 in a row, opening the door for a vulture save on Monday. 

Hierarchy remains: Scott | Nardi | Robertson

September 29, 2023
Miami Marlins — Thursday’s game against the Mets was suspended after the Marlins took the lead in the ninth inning. The game is set to resume Monday – after the regular season ends for everyone else. Whoever pitches — aside from Andrew Nardi, who got the final out of the eighth inning and could be in line for a win if he re-enters — will be facing a save situation. Meanwhile, Tanner Scott has been activated from the paternity list. 

Updated hierarchy: Scott | Nardi | Robertson

September 27, 2023
Miami Marlins — Tanner Scott was placed on the paternity list Tuesday, which means the Marlins will turn to Andrew Nardi, David Robertson and A.J. Puk to close games over the next couple days as they fight for a playoff spot.

Updated hierarchy: *Nardi | Robertson | Puk.
* = closer-by-committee

September 14, 2023
Miami Marlins — David Robertson isn’t closing for Miami anymore, but he’s found a pretty comfortable home in the seventh inning. Robertson is the only righthander in the Marlins’ top five relievers.

Updated hierarchy: Scott | Nardi | Robertson.

August 28, 2023
Miami Marlins – As we alerted, David Robertson was removed from the closer’s role before Sunday’s game, and the new closer, Tanner Scott, pitched well Sunday to earn his third save of the season.

Updated hierarchy: Scott | Nardi | Puk.

August 27, 2023
Miami Marlins – The Marlins are removing David Robertson from the closer’s role after struggles the last week. Tanner Scott will get the first chances, but expect Andrew Nardi and A.J. Puk to be in the mix as well.

Updated hierarchy: Scott | Nardi | Puk.

August 9, 2023
Miami Marlins – Andrew Nardi pitched a perfect seventh inning and Tanner Scott followed with a perfect eighth inning in last night’s win, and we’ll adjust the hierarchy accordingly.

Updated hierarchy: Robertson | Scott | Nardi.

July 28, 2023
Miami Marlins – David Robertson should slot in as Miami’s closer after the Marlins acquired him from the Mets. A.J. Puk, who had been struggling lately and blew a save in his last appearance on Sunday, will be expected to join Tanner Scott and newly acquired Jorge Lopez as a setup man.

Updated hierarchy: Robertson | Puk | Scott.

July 27, 2023
Miami Marlins – The Marlins sent Dylan Floro to the Twins for Jorge Lopez on Wednesday. We don’t anticipate Floro will crack the hierarchy in Minnesota just yet, but we’ll slot Lopez into his old spot in Miami.

Updated hierarchy: *Puk | Scott | Lopez.
* = closer-by-committee

July 23, 2023
Miami Marlins – A day after the dreaded vote of confidence, the Marlins sent AJ Puk out in the 8th inning of a tie game.  He threw a scoreless inning with a couple strikeouts.  Tanner Scott, who manager Skip Schumaker specifically mentioned would get more high leverage looks, got the top of the 9th with the game still tied.  That is a spot typically reserved for a closer and although Scott faltered by allowing a run and taking the loss, this certainly appears to be heading towards a committe.  We will see if AJ Puk can turn it around and reclaim the job for himself but for now we think Scott and maybe even Dylan Floro could be in the mix for saves for the Marlins.

Updated hierarchy: *Puk | Scott | Floro.
* = closer-by-committee

July 22, 2023
Miami Marlins – Marlins manager Skip Schumaker gave out a vote of confidence for closer AJ Puk yesterday. Puk has had a brutal July, but with the Marlins in the middle of a 7 game skid he is still has their most recent save opportunity and conversion. One bright spot during the losing streak has been Tanner Scott, who has an 8 game scoreless streak going, and was mentioned as being in line for higher leverage spots. This is enough to get him on the hierarchy, but watch the Marlins come deadline day, they may be shopping for outside help. 

Updated hierarchy: Puk | Floro | Scott.

July 9, 2023
Miami Marlins – The Marlins sent A.J. Puk right back out there after blowing the save the night before and he responded with a scoreless inning for his 15th save of the season.  It was important for Puk to lock down this save after failing in his two previous opportunities but it also shows that the Marlins still have confidence in him. 

Hierarchy remains: Puk | Floro | Brazoban.

July 8, 2023
Miami Marlins – A.J. Puk blew a save and took a loss last night. This was his second straight blown save, and he’s given up 5 runs over that span. Puk had emerged as the clear top option in the Miami pen, but these past two outings have been tough for the contending Marlins. It’s a bit too early to say that this is back to a committee, but we will keep an eye on any changes for the Marlins in the next week or two. 

Hierarchy remains: Puk | Floro | Brazoban.

July 5, 2023
Miami Marlins – Andrew Nardi was placed on the injured list Tuesday with left triceps inflammation. Huascar Brazoban has been impressive as of late and could see more late-inning appearances as a result.

Updated hierarchy: Puk | Floro | Brazoban.

June 19, 2023
Miami Marlins – Andrew Nardi is for real! The Nard Dog picked up his first save of the season on Sunday, notching his 19th consecutive appearance without an earned run. Yes, you read that right, 19 straight! He’s made his way onto this hierarchy, though we still expect that AJ Puk and Dylan Floro (who pitched the 8th) are still in the mix for saves, along with Tanner Scott (who will likely handle the multi-inning assignments).

Updated hierarchy: Puk | Floro | Nardi.

June 18, 2023
Miami Marlins – A.J. Puk has pitched six scoreless innings since his return in early June and has recorded all three of the Marlins save.  Puk has eliminated any concerns of a committee in Miami. 

Updated hierarchy: Puk | Floro | Scott.

June 7, 2023
Miami Marlins – A.J. Puk was activated from the IL on Tuesday. We’ll move him back to the closer’s role but we’ll slap an asterisk on this hierarchy until we see just how quickly the Marlins use Puk in high-leverage situations.

Updated hierarchy: *Puk | Floro | Scott.
* = closer-by-committee

June 4, 2023
Miami Marlins – George Soriano pitched the last three innings of the Marlins blowout win yesterday to record his first save.   Soriano gave up a run and six baserunners in those three innings and will not be a factor in the Marlins’ normal late inning plans.

Hierarchy remains: Floro | Scott | Chargois.

May 29, 2023
Miami Marlins – After pitching in three straight, Dylan Floro wasn’t going to appear on Sunday, and with Tanner Scott and Matt Barnes used bridging the gap to the 9th, that left JT Chargois for the save. It wasn’t the most inspiring outing, (3 baserunners, 0 Ks), but Chargois has had a fine season (2.79 ERA, 0.83 WHIP) so we’ll focus on the fact that he got the job done.

Updated hierarchy: Floro | Scott | Chargois.

May 19, 2023
Miami Marlins – With A.J. Puk out, Dylan Floro has collected the past three saves for the Marlins, doing so in just a five-day stretch this week, including on Thursday. It sure seems like this is Floro’s job at this point, at least until Puk returns.

Updated hierarchy: Floro | Scott | Barnes.

May 15, 2023
Miami Marlins – A.J. Puk was placed on the IL with nerve irritation. Dylan Floro picked up the save on Sunday; expect him to lead the Miami committee with Tanner Scott and Matt Barnes also in the mix.

Updated hierarchy: *Floro | Scott | Barnes.
* = closer-by-committee

May 8, 2023
Miami Marlins – Andrew Nardi, the 6th man out of the bullpen, picked up a 14th inning save on Sunday, the first of his career. Though we love him even more because his first name is Andy, the Nard Dog doesn’t factor in to the Marlins’ usual late-inning plans.

Hierarchy remains: *Puk | Floro | Scott.
* = closer-by-committee

April 30, 2023
Miami Marlins – The Marlins gave AJ Puk and Dylan Floro the day off yesterday and that left Tanner Scott for the save chance.  Scott struck out a pair to close out a 7-6 win and record his second save of the season.  Scott was listed on the Vulture Save Watch yesterday so hopefully his save helped out some of our readers. 

Hierarchy remains: *Puk | Floro | Scott.
* = closer-by-committee

April 28, 2023
Miami Marlins – AJ Puk pitched the eighth inning Thursday with a 4-0 deficit, likely just getting some work in as it had been several days since he last appeared in a game. Puk pitched a clean frame, and when Miami stunningly scored five runs in the top of the ninth to take the lead, Dylan Floro came on to retire the side for his first save. So while you missed out on a Puk save, be happy with the vulture win! And be happy because he most likely to be the main saves option moving forward and is another clean save away from kicking that asterisk.

Hierarchy remains: *Puk | Floro | Scott.
* = closer-by-committee

April 23, 2023
Miami Marlins – AJ Puk pitched a scoreless 9th inning to pick up his fourth save of the season.  Puk has recorded the last three saves for the Marlins and four of five total, with the only other save coming on a day he was not available.  It’s hard to ignore how good Dylan Floro has been (0.00 ERA, 0.39 WHIP and 10 Ks in 10.1 innings) but he has no save chances on the season so far.  There have been match-up reasons, as Floro faced the 3-4-5 hitters in the 8th inning yesterday, but if Puk gets the next save, he will likely kick the committee tag and Floro will just be a dominant set-up man.

Hierarchy remains: *Puk | Floro | Scott.
* = closer-by-committee

April 19, 2023
Miami Marlins – AJ Puk recorded his third save of the season (and second in as many days) on Tuesday with a scoreless ninth inning. Once again it was Dylan Floro who pitched the eighth, though it should be noted that Floro faced the 2-3-4 hitters in the Giants’ lineup, retiring them in order to extend his scoreless streak to 8.2 IP to start the season. Floro, who has given up just one hit all season, looks like he’ll get the toughest matchup regardless of inning in this committee.

Hierarchy remains: *Puk | Floro | Scott.
* = closer-by-committee

April 18, 2023
Miami Marlins – AJ Puk got his second save of the year, pitching a scoreless 9th. Dylan Floro pitched a scoreless 8th and has been great thus far, allowing 0 runs in 7.2 innings to start his season, and this still feels like a committee approach. But given that Puk has two saves and Floro is yet to get one, we’ll swap them for the time being.

Updated hierarchy: *Puk | Floro | Scott.
* = closer-by-committee

April 16, 2023
Miami Marlins — The Marlins have won four in a row and have eight wins on the season but yesterday was their first save since the second game of the season.  It went to Tanner Scott, who pitched a perfect 9th inning for his first save of the season.  Dylan Floro and A.J. Puk both pitched the day before and have typically been pitching after Scott, but this is a good reminder that this looks to be a true committee at this point.

Hierarchy Remains: *Floro | Puk | Scott.
* = closer-by-committee

April 1, 2023
Miami Marlins — The first save of the Marlins committee went to A.J. Puk, who pitched the 9th inning of a 2 run game. He gave up a solo homer to Pete Alonso, but was otherwise unscathed. Dylan Floro was brought in to face righties in 8th (and immediately faced 2 left handed pinch hitters). We still think Floro will see the bulk of chances due to the righty-lefty matchups, but if you’re scraping the barrel for Marlins saves, Puk is about even in this committee. 

Hierarchy Remains: *Floro | Puk | Scott.
* = closer-by-committee

March 30, 2023
Miami Marlins — Skip Schumaker has tabbed a closer committee of A.J. Puk, Dylan Floro, and Tanner Scott to start the season, with Matt Barnes and his lower K rate relegated to the middle innings. We’ll move Floro to the top of the committee if only because he’s the only righty of the three, and has by far the best career numbers against righthanded batters.

Updated hierarchy: *Floro | Puk | Scott.
* = closer-by-committee

March 16, 2023
Miami Marlins – Manager Skip Schumaker said earlier this year that he was going to play matchups in the late innings, with “Our best guys are going… against their best hitters.” The ‘best guys’ in Miami are likely to be new acquisitions Matt Barnes and AJ Puk, along with holdovers Tanner Scott, Dylan Floro, and JT Chargois. Barnes has had a slightly shaky start to his spring, but we’d expect that he and Puk would likely be the go-to guys in the late innings. Scott proved last year that he could be effective across multiple innings, so he could also be in the mix if they’re looking for someone to get more than 3 outs.

Starting 2023 hierarchy: *Barnes | Puk | Scott.
* = closer-by-committee
Holds candidates: Barnes, Puk, Scott, Floro, Chargois.

October 3, 2022
Miami Marlins – The fifth man out of the bullpen for the Marlins in Sunday’s 12-inning affair was Tanner Scott, and the lefty managed to strand the automatic runner and pick up his 20th save of the season. Dylan Floro remains the best bet for saves in the season’s final series.

Hierarchy remains: Floro | Scott | Bleier.

October 2, 2022
Miami Marlins — Dylan Floro got a second day off after pitching in three straight.  The Marlins trailed heading into the 9th inning but after rallying in the top of the 9th to take a one run lead, Richard Bleier pitched a scoreless inning for his first save of the season.  

Hierarchy remains: Floro | Scott | Bleier.

September 30, 2022
Miami Marlins — Steven Okert was placed on the injured list Thursday with left triceps tightness. We’ll slot Richard Bleier into the hierarchy for the home stretch.

Updated hierarchy: Floro | Scott | Bleier.

September 25, 2022
Miami Marlins — Dylan Floro pitched a perfect 9th inning for his 7th save of the season.  Floro has now recorded the Marlins last four save and that’s enough to kick the committee tag.  

Updated hierarchy: Floro | Scott | Okert.

September 16, 2022
Miami Marlins — Dylan Floro allowed a run in the ninth but closed things out Thursday for his fifth save. Tanner Scott pitched a scoreless eighth inning ahead of him as part of what is becoming a trend. Floro now has two consecutive Marlins saves and is one save away from the asterisk being dropped.

Hierarchy remains: *Floro | Scott | Okert.
* = closer-by-committee

September 10, 2022
Miami Marlins — Tanner Scott was used in the seventh inning again, and when he ran into trouble Steven Okert preserved the lead through the 8th inning. This left the save to Dylan Floro, who converted for his 4th on the year. It had been almost 3 weeks but Scott did have the previous 2 saves for the Marlins. However, his recent usage has suggested that he isn’t the head of this committee right now, and last night confirmed that. We will adjust accordingly.

Updated hierarchy: *Floro | Scott | Okert.
* = closer-by-committee

September 1, 2022
Miami Marlins — Tanner Scott was used in the seventh inning of a tie game, the second time this week that he’s gotten middle-inning (albeit still high-leverage) work. We’ll toss a committee asterisk on here to reflect that Dylan Floro or Steven Okert could be in the mix for saves given this usage.

Updated hierarchy: *Scott | Floro | Okert.
* = closer-by-committee

August 30, 2022
Miami Marlins – Tanner Scott’s rough outing on Friday — a blown save in a game the Marlins go on to would lose in extras — was followed on Monday by a 7th inning appearance. For his part, Scott was dominant, needing just 12 pitches to strike out the 8-9-1 hitters, but this was an unusual spot for Miami’s ostensible closer. Dylan Floro last got a save two weeks ago, and pitched a scoreless 9th last night to keep the game tied, so it’s possible the Marlins are moving toward a committee approach. We will monitor.

Hierarchy remains: Scott | Floro | Okert.

August 17, 2022
Miami Marlins – As the Vulture Save Watch predicted, Tanner Scott needed a night off after back to back outings, and it was Dylan Floro who got the call in the 9th inning of a 1 run game (after the first baserunner reached off of Richard Bleier). Floro gave up a single, but struck out the other 3 hitters he faced for his 3rd save of the year. Scott should be ready to go today. 

Updated hierarchy: Scott | Floro | Okert.

August 15, 2022
Miami Marlins – Anthony Bender was placed on the IL with a right elbow strain. Look for Steven Okert and Dylan Floro to pick up a few more hold opportunities as a result.

Updated hierarchy: Scott | Floro | Okert.

August 3, 2022
Miami Marlins – The Marlins traded Anthony Bass traded to Toronto, but they did also add to their bullpen on Tuesday with the return of Anthony Bender from the IL. Pitching for the first time since May 18, Bender was sharp last night, striking out two in a perfect eighth inning. We’ll slot Bender into Bass’ spot in the hierarchy for now.

Updated hierarchy: Scott | Bender | Floro.

July 26, 2022
Miami Marlins – He might have his control problems (9 BBs/9 IP), but bolstered by his league best .000 BABIP, “ground ball pitcher” Willians Astudillo now just needs seven more hitless innings to throw the equivalent of a no-hitter. The legend of La Tortuga continued last night with his second scoreless, hitless inning of the season.

Hierarchy remains: Scott | Bass | Floro.

July 25, 2022
Miami Marlins – Anthony Bass, filling in for a resting Tanner Scott, couldn’t close out the Pirates in the 9th inning on Sunday afternoon. However, after the Marlins scored two in the top of the 10th, on came Jeff Brigham, who hadn’t pitched in the majors since 2020. Brigham allowed only the automatic runner to score, locking down just his second career save.

Hierarchy remains: Scott | Bass | Floro.

July 5, 2022
Miami Marlins – Monday morning. 7 a.m. The alarm blares. Ugh. Forgot to switch it off. Head is absolutely throbbing. Mouth tastes like whiskey and pavement. At least there’s no work today, thank God. You roll over and grab the phone. It’s too bright, but you squint and absentmindedly scroll over to the gram. It’s her. Smiling. On a boat. With her new boyfriend. Great. Well, enough of that. Over to the box scores. Hey. Look. Dylan Floro got a save. Ha. That darn Monkey did it again. A quick smile before you drift back off, and when you wake up again, the morning update is out. Look at that — Floro’s on the Vulture Save Watch for a second straight day. Heh, well, he’s already on the roster, despite the 5+ ERA. What’s one more day? Noon rolls around. You head to the barbecue. The burgers are overcooked. There are too many kids, as always. Brynne falls off the swing and is screeching. Of course. Ugh. You sneak inside during the commotion and head to the liquor cabinet. The whiskey flows. At least it’s just a short drive back. The party mercifully ends. Back home, the couch beckons. Head is swimming, but plenty of daylight left. Fall asleep now and work won’t be so bad in the morning. One more check of the box scores. Ha. No way. Another save for Floro. What a world. You drift off thinking that the guy she’s with is ugly, anyway.

Updated hierarchy: Scott | Bass | Floro.

July 4, 2022
Miami Marlins – Speaking of which, after the Marlins hitters rallied against Tanner Rainey in the top of the 9th, Tanner Scott was summoned for the third straight day to try and lock down the save. (Yes, we also just realized that 40% of the NL East’s closers are named “Tanner.” What a world.) Scott blew the save chance, but Dylan Floro, who was also listed in yesterday morning’s Vulture Save Watch, got the job done in the bottom of the 10th after the Marlins tacked on three additional runs. Wasn’t quite how we drew this one up, but VSW loyalists were still rewarded.

Hierarchy remains: Scott | Bass | Okert.

June 24, 2022
Miami Marlins — Tanner Scott converted his seventh save overall on Thursday and has the Marlins’ last six saves. The job is his and the asterisk is booted.

Updated hierarchy: Scott | Bass | Okert

June 16, 2022
Miami Marlins — Tanner Scott blew his first save of the season on Wednesday, courtesy of a Garrett Stubbs walk-off, but it’ll probably take another one to challenge his slot at the top of this bullpen. In other news, Cole Sulser hit the injured list and lefty Steven Okert (9 holds, 12.8 K/9) has surpassed Dylan Floro.

Updated hierarchy: *Scott | Bass | Okert.
* = closer-by-committee

June 11, 2022
Miami Marlins – Tanner Scott continues to make the case that he should be the full time closer in Miami. He pitched a perfect 9th inning last night to earn his 4th save, and now has either the win or the save in his last 5 appearances. He will probably get the day off today (as you will see in the Vulture Save Watch), but he is clearly the guy to own in Miami. 

Updated hierarchy: *Scott | Bass | Floro.
* = closer-by-committee

June 10, 2022
Miami Marlins – The Marlins haven’t had anyone claim the top spot in their bullpen for a while, but Tanner Scott has been making a good case lately. He’d had the bullpen’s most recent save, and had also appeared in spots in a couple of tie games when teams would normally use their closer. Then, on Thursday, he picked up another save, following 1.1 scoreless set-up innings by Anthony Bass. We’ll shuffle him to the top of this hierarchy and see if he sticks.

Updated hierarchy: *Scott | Bass | Floro.
* = closer-by-committee

June 3, 2022
Miami Marlins — You read us closely each day, so of course you knew Tanner Scott had the potential to earn a save Thursday. He did just that for his second one since joining Miami. Score another one for the Vulture Save Watch! 

Hierarchy remains: *Bass | Sulser | Floro.
* = closer-by-committee

June 2, 2022
Miami Marlins — The Marlins put 26 runs on the scoreboard Wednesday, but still came away with a loss. After a 14-1 victory over Colorado in the opening game of a doubleheader, Miami called on Anthony Bass to get two outs in the seventh, then keep the game tied through the eighth and ninth. But then came the tenth, when Cole Sulser yielded a walk-off home run to the first batter. Dylan Floro pitched a scoreless inning in the first game, but his 1.1 K/9 ratio certainly doesn’t scream high-leverage, so we’ll keep this hierarchy as it is for now.

Hierarchy remains: *Bass | Sulser | Floro.
* = closer-by-committee

May 31, 2022
Miami Marlins – We weren’t certain which way the Marlins would go with Anthony Bender out and Dylan Floro struggling, but Cole Sulser certainly didn’t make a good case for himself on Monday, allowing four earned runs in the 7th inning and ultimately taking the loss. Tanner Scott wasn’t much better, as he allowed three additional runs in the 9th after the game was out of reach. We’ll move Anthony Bass back up for lack of better options, while also noting that, following a couple disastrous outings off the IL, Dylan Floro now has six straight scoreless appearances.

Updated hierarchy: *Bass | Sulser | Floro.
* = closer-by-committee

May 29, 2022
Miami Marlins — Cole Sulser struck out a pair in a scoreless 9th inning for his second save of the season.  Sulser has a chance to establish himself as the primary closer for the Marlins if he can string together a few saves.

Updated hierarchy: *Sulser | Bass | Scott.
* = closer-by-committee

May 19, 2022
Miami Marlins — Anthony Bender has six saves, but he isn’t being used like Miami’s top closing option. Sure, it’s been a rough 5-12 May for the Marlins, but they keep using Bender early on, like Tuesday in the fifth, or Wednesday’s failed stint in a tied eighth. Although we keep expecting Dylan Floro to get a shot to close, he hasn’t looked good in his return from the IL (10 baserunners in four innings, 11.25 ERA). Meanwhile, Anthony Bass, Tanner Scott, and Cole Sulser have all been fairly impressive in middle relief. What we’re basically saying is that Miami doesn’t have a closer, and we have no idea what they’re going to do next. Adjust accordingly!

Updated hierarchy: *Bender | Sulser | Bass.
* = closer-by-committee

May 10, 2022
Miami Marlins – Dylan Floro was activated from the IL before the game on Monday night, and the fact that he didn’t appear in the 4-3 loss is enough to suggest that he’s already very close to the top of this hierarchy. We’ll slot him second for now and see how the Marlins deploy him going forward.

Updated hierarchy: *Bender | Floro | Sulser.
* = closer-by-committee

May 9, 2022
Miami Marlins – After his second blown save on Wednesday, Anthony Bender started the 8th inning of a losing effort on Thursday, whereupon he recorded two outs but also allowed two baserunners before being lifted. On Sunday, he got another lower leverage spot, pitching the 6th inning in a game the Marlins led by 2. This was a better outing for Bender (1.0 IP, 2 Ks, no baserunners), and his fantasy owners were probably pleased to see Cole Sulser blow the game via a walkoff 3-run-HR to Jose Alfaro in the 9th, but regardless, Dylan Floro is very close to returning, having pitched 2 innings in a rehab outing on Friday. With no other reliever establishing themselves, Floro seems likely to return to the job in relatively short order.

Hierarchy remains: *Bender | Sulser | Scott.
* = closer-by-committee

May 5, 2022
Miami Marlins — Anthony Bender blew his second save on Wednesday in a loss to Atlanta, but fortunately for Miami, Dylan Floro is close to a return.

Hierarchy remains: *Bender | Sulser | Scott.
* = closer-by-committee

May 1, 2022
Miami Marlins – Anthony Bender worked around a couple of singles and struck out a pair to secure his sixth save of the season.  Bender has four straight scoreless appearances and he has earned a save in each.  Dylan Floro is on a rehab assignment but if Bender can keep converting save chances, he might have a chance to stay on top of the hierarchy.

Hierarchy remains: *Bender | Sulser | Scott.
* = closer-by-committee

April 29, 2022
Miami Marlins – As predicted in the Vulture Save Watch, Anthony Bender was not available Thursday after pitching in two straight, so the Marlins turned to Cole Sulser, who converted for his first save. This usage alone requires a slight adjustment to the hierarchy. Meanwhile, Dylan Floro is on a rehab assignment and could factor into this mix when he returns.

Updated hierarchy: *Bender | Sulser | Scott.
* = closer-by-committee

April 27, 2022
Miami Marlins – Anthony Bender had been unavailable over the weekend with hip soreness, but he returned on Tuesday and pitched a perfect ninth inning for his third save of the season.

Updated hierarchy: *Bender | Scott | Sulser.
* = closer-by-committee

April 25, 2022
Miami Marlins – Had Tanner Scott made his way through the 9th inning unscathed (or even scathed but successful), we likely would’ve been hemming and hawing about whether he was on the verge of taking the top spot of this committee, as the Marlins have continued to keep Anthony Bender out of action while he recovers from a hip injury. But Scott got into trouble, allowing three earned runs and only recording one out before giving way to Louis Head. Head allowed a long double to Marcell Ozuna before striking out the final two hitters to end it. Bender maintains his place at the top of this mess for now.

Updated hierarchy: *Bender | Scott | Bass.
* = closer-by-committee

April 24, 2022
Miami Marlins – Lefty Tanner Scott pitched a perfect 9th inning to pick up his first save of the season.  Anthony Bender last pitched on Wednesday when he took the loss by giving up a homer in the 9th inning of a tie game.  Bender has been unable to assert himself as the closer and it looks like this could be moving back towards a more traditional committee.  Also, Dylan Floro is starting a rehab assignment.  We will see how it all plays out and if Bender can find his form.

Updated hierarchy:  *Bender | Scott | Sulser.
* = closer-by-committee

April 15, 2022
Miami Marlins – Manager Don Mattingly is holding true to his word – Anthony Bender is his man for saves. Bender looked a little shaky, allowing two hits, but he held the Phillies scoreless to earn his second save. If he gets one more save, we’ll kick the asterisk. Dylan Floro has not returned yet and could muddy this situation when he does, but if Bender has a firm grip on the role he might not relinquish it.

Hierarchy remains:  *Bender | Sulser | Bass.
* = closer-by-committee

April 10, 2022
Miami Marlins – Anthony Bender blew his first save chance of the season on Friday, but the Marlins stuck with him on Saturday and he was able to close out a one-run victory.  We will see if Bender can settle into the role while Dylan Floro is sidelined.

Hierarchy remains:  *Bender | Sulser | Bass.
* = closer-by-committee

April 8, 2022
Miami Marlins – Manager Don Mattingly cleared up what appeared to be a muddy bullpen situation in Miami, tapping Anthony Bender as his first choice for saves with Dylan Floro injured, even after the acquisition of Cole Sulser. We’ll adjust accordingly.

Updated Hierarchy:  *Bender | Sulser | Bass.
* = closer-by-committee

April 4, 2022
Miami Marlins – The other side of the Cole Sulser trade is leading to an unsettled situation in Miami. Furthermore, we learned recently that Dylan Floro wouldn’t be ready to start the year but it shouldn’t be too long before he’s back in the mix. For now, count on Sulser with a slight lead in a very muddy committee that should get muddier when Floro returns. Anthony Bender and Anthony Bass should also factor into the saves conversation.

Updated Hierarchy: Sulser* | Bender | Bass.

March 30, 2022
Miami Marlins – Dylan Floro is dealing with some arm soreness and might not be ready for opening day.  He has not been shut down so there is still a chance he can get himself in a position to pitch opening day, but if he misses any time, Anthony Bender could see some save chances to start the year.

Hierarchy remains: Floro | Bender | Bass.

March 24, 2022
Miami Marlins – Dylan Floro will start the season where he finished it last year, as Miami’s primary choice for 9th inning responsibilities. Anthony Bender and Anthony Bass will be the set-up men, with veteran Richard Bleier contributing occasional lefthanded holds. Unless you’re in a pretty deep league, Floro is the only reliever worth owning here. Bender is the likely handcuff if Floro struggles.

Starting 2022 hierarchy: Floro | Bender | Bass.
Holds candidates: Bender, Bass, Bleier.

October 1, 2021
Miami Marlins – Catcher Sandy Leon managed to get into his sixth game as a reliever on Thursday, allowing a run in 0.1 IP to balloon his ERA to…7.50. He’s allowed five runs in six innings this season. He has the most appearances for a non-pitcher this season, a kind of thing that happens on a 94-loss team.

Hierarchy remains: Floro | Bender | Bass.

September 14, 2021
Miami Marlins – Dylan Floro collected his 11th save of the season on Monday night. We’re removing his asterisk as he’s been the clear top choice in this bullpen and should continue to be over the season’s final weeks.

Updated hierarchy: Floro | Bender | Bass.

September 1, 2021
Miami Marlins – Anthony Bass and Richard Bleier combined to turn a 5-1 lead into a 5-3 lead in the ninth inning, so Dylan Floro came on with a chance to earn his third save in as many chances. Floro was unable to halt the Mets’ comeback, but we’ll still move him to the top of this committee based on his recent usage.

Updated hierarchy: *Floro | Bender | Bass.
* = closer-by-committee

August 30, 2021
Miami Marlins – Anthony Bender pitched a hitless 7th and 8th innings on Sunday, leaving the 9th to Dylan Floro, who converted for his 7th save of the year. This remains a committee.

Hierarchy remains: *Bender | Floro | Bass.
* = closer-by-committee

August 27, 2021
Miami Marlins – After a four-run lead became a two-run lead in the ninth inning, Dylan Floro came on to retire the only batter he faced and earn the save. Anthony Bender had maintained that four-run lead with a scoreless eighth inning and also pitched the seventh inning on Wednesday, with Floro picking up a 10th-inning win. We’ll keep an eye out to see if this was just a flukey couple of games or if Floro has truly overtaken Bender in the Miami bullpen.

Hierarchy remains: *Bender | Floro | Bass.
* = closer-by-committee

August 16, 2021
Miami Marlins – Anthony Bender got the day off, allowing Dylan Floro to pick up his 5th save. This was in the Vulture Save Watch yesterday though so we’re sure you already knew this would happen.

Hierarchy remains: *Bender | Floro | Bass.
* = closer-by-committee

August 15, 2021
Miami Marlins – Dylan Floro came on with two outs in the 8th inning and the Marlins up two, but quickly made a mess of things.  He gave up a single and a walk to load the bases and then a double to clear the bases and blow the lead.  After the Marlins took the lead again in the bottom of the 8th inning, Anthony Bender came out for the 9th trying to protect a one-run lead.  Bender struck out a pair in a perfect inning to pick up his third save of the season.  That’s two straight saves for Bender, and he also got the 9th inning to finish off the Marlins win on Friday, though that was not a save opportunity.  Floro has now allowed at least one earned run in three of his past four outings, and based on last night’s usage and results, we will move Bender to the top of this committee.

Updated hierarchy: *Bender | Floro | Bass.
* = closer-by-committee

August 6, 2021
Miami Marlins – The Vulture Save Watch nailed this one. Anthony Bender picked up the save after he allowed an unearned run in the ninth while Dylan Floro had the night off.

Hierarchy remains: *Floro | Bender | Bass.
* = closer-by-committee

August 4, 2021
Miami Marlins – Dylan Floro earned his second straight save on Tuesday, though this time he wasn’t as effective, allowing one run on two hits. Anthony Bender got the final out of the sixth inning, though it was an important out as the go-ahead run was at the plate. One more Floro save may allow him to ditch the asterisk.

Hierarchy remains: *Floro | Bender | Bass.
* = closer-by-committee

August 3, 2021
Miami Marlins – The first post-Yimi save in the Marlins bullpen went to Dylan Floro, who pitched a clean 9th while his ostensible competitor, Anthony Bender, worked the 7th. We’ll swap them in the hierarchy and see if this is the arrangement going forward before we remove the asterisk.

Updated hierarchy: *Floro | Bender | Bass.
* = closer-by-committee

July 28, 2021
Miami Marlins — The Marlins have traded closer Yimi Garcia to the Astros.  Anthony Bender and Dylan Floro should lead a committee for Miami and we will see if either one can establish themselves as the primary closer the rest of the season.  

Updated hierarchy remains: *Bender | Floro | Bass.
* = closer-by-committee

July 8, 2021
Miami Marlins — Anthony Bender got a save opportunity on Wednesday, but three swinging strikeouts were scattered around a game-tying home run. Once the Marlins scored three in the bottom of the ninth off Edwin Uceta, though, Bender grabbed the win. Don Mattingly has admitted to preferring a one-man approach in the ninth inning, and another meltdown by Yimi Garcia could force him into making Bender that man. Hot diggity daffodil!

Hierarchy remains: Garcia | Bender | Floro.

July 6, 2021
Miami Marlins – For the last two years, Anthony Bender pitched in the independent leagues, but he’s now in the bigs and his slider is living up to his name. With Yimi Garcia — and several other of their top relievers — unavailable on Monday, Bender picked up his first career save. The 26-year-old righty, who started his career with 22 scoreless innings, now has a 0.68 ERA on the season. Expect to see him in more high-leverage spots going forward, as he has the numbers and the stuff to take the job from Garcia should the latter continue to struggle. With a backstory like his, we’re excited to see what Bender can do and for the endless potential of future Bender Bending Rodriguez jokes that only like 4 percent of our readership will understand.

Updated hierarchy: Garcia | Bender | Floro.

June 16, 2021
Miami Marlins – A name to watch in the Marlins bullpen is Anthony Bender, who kept his ERA at 0.00 through 18 games with a perfect seventh inning on Tuesday. That stat is even more impressive when you consider that Bender was playing independent ball last year before the Marlins signed him. Bender has struck out 22 and walked just five since making his MLB debut on May 5.

Hierarchy remains: Garcia | Floro | Bass.

June 13, 2021
Miami Marlins – As predicted in the Vulture Save Watch yesterday, Yimi Garcia got the day off on Saturday.  Dylan Floro pitched a scoreless ninth for his second save of the season.

Hierarchy remains: Garcia | Floro | Bass.

May 25, 2021
Miami Marlins – With the tying run on deck, Dylan Floro came in to get the last out of the 9th inning on Monday. He retired Rhys Hoskins, allowing the Marlins to give Yimi Garcia a second consecutive day off after the closer pitched on both Friday and Saturday.

Hierarchy remains: Garcia | Floro | Bass.

April 29, 2021
Miami Marlins — Although Richard Bleier was mentioned a few weeks ago as a possible save option based on matchups, Yimi Garcia has locked down the ninth, with Dylan Floro and Anthony Bass holding down the seventh and eighth. We’ll adjust accordingly.

Updated hierarchy: Garcia | Floro | Bass.

April 17, 2021
Miami Marlins – Since falling out of the closer’s role, Anthony Bass has been excellent.  He picked up the win last night with a scoreless 8th inning of a tie game and is now holding a modest 4 game scoreless streak. While Bass may not resume closing as long as Yimi Garcia stays hot, he’s at least seeing higher leverage innings.

Updated hierarchy: Garcia | Bleier | Bass.

April 13, 2021
Miami Marlins – Yimi Garcia continues to get things done for Miami, earning a win in yesterday’s extra-inning game, and in recent days, another former Dodger has been the one to bridge the gap. We’re removing Garcia’s asterisk and adding Dylan Floro (5.1 IP, 7 Ks, 0 ER) to the hierarchy.

Updated hierarchy: Garcia | Bleier | Floro.

April 11, 2021
Miami Marlins – We suggested in our previous Marlins update to keep an eye on Yimi Garcia and sure enough, it was Garcia who got the call in the 9th inning with the Marlins protecting a three-run lead yesterday.  Garcia pitched a perfect inning to pick up his first save of the season.  Manager Don Mattingly said that Anthony Bass would still have a big role moving forward but for now, it might not always be protecting a 9th inning lead.  We will move this to a committee with Garcia at the top.  Lefty Richard Bleier was also mentioned as an option to close based on matchups.

Updated hierarchy: *Garcia | Bass | Bleier.
* = closer-by-committee

April 9, 2021
Miami Marlins – Anthony Bass blew his second save in as many tries on Thursday, coughing up a game-tying home run before “hitting” Michael Conforto with a pitch with the bases loaded to end it. Some — including the home plate umpire — think Conforto was struck because he hung over the plate, which if true would result in a strike and not a HBP. You be the judge. Either way, Bass has not been impressive to start things. Bass might have a little more rope for now, but keep an eye on Yimi Garcia. Perhaps he snags the next save chance?

Hierarchy remains: Bass | Garcia | Curtiss.

April 3, 2021
Miami Marlins – Yimi Garcia pitched a scoreless 8th inning with the Marlins up one to pick up his first hold of the season.  Garcia also got the call in the 8th inning of a tie game on opening day, although that outing didn’t go as well as he took the loss after giving up a go-ahead homer.  Based on this early usage, we will move Garcia to 1st in line behind closer Anthony Bass.

Updated hierarchy: Bass | Garcia | Curtiss.

March 5, 2021
Miami Marlins – When it comes to the closer role, Don Mattingly has erred on the side of experience in his past, and so it’s no surprise that he’s mentioned Anthony Bass on several occasions when discussing the 9th inning this spring, and for his part, Bass seems ready for the role. If the righty has a disastrous spring, then offseason acquisitions Dylan Floro, Adam Cimber, or John Curtiss could step in, the latter of whom we’d keep a close eye on, given the prominent role(s) he played for the Rays last year.

Starting 2021 hierarchy: Bass | Curtiss | Floro.
Holds candidates: Curtiss, Floro, Cimber, Ross Detwiler.

September 12, 2020
Miami Marlins — In the nightcap of a doubleheader, the Marlins used Brad Boxberger and Brandon Kintzler as setup men . . . and Yimi Garcia to close out the game. After the game, Don Mattingly explained that Kintzler had a fingernail issue that presumably kept him from sending the closer back out after a four-pitch sixth inning. In light of Kintzler’s recent struggles and Garcia’s hot start since returning from the COVID-19 list (0.93 ERA; 11.2 K/9 rate), we’ll be watching this bullpen closely.

Updated hierarchy: Kintzler | Boxberger | Garcia.

September 8, 2020
Miami Marlins – After Brandon Kintzler blew the save in the 9th inning, the Marlins retook the lead in the 10th and Nick Vincent converted the opportunity. Kintzler has had a couple blown saves recently but has been generally solid and is unlikely to lose the job at this point.

Hierarchy remains: Kintzler | Boxberger | Vincent.

August 26, 2020
Miami Marlins — After both Brandon Kintzler and Brad Boxberger pitched in the first game of Tuesday’s doubleheader, Nick Vincent closed out the nightcap to earn his second save of the season.

Hierarchy remains: Kintzler | Boxberger | Vincent.

August 13, 2020
Miami Marlins — When the Marlins scored three runs in the top of the tenth, they turned to Josh Smith to close the game out. He pitched a clean inning to earn his first save. Smith has been a solid option for Miami in the early going, but his career numbers are nothing special, and as the entire Marlins hierarchy had pitched earlier in the game, we don’t see this as a sign of any change.

Hierarchy remains: Kintzler | Boxberger | Vincent.

August 8, 2020
Miami Marlins — With the Marlins resting Brandon Kintzler and Brad Boxberger, Nick Vincent got the last five outs on Friday night to earn his first save of the year.

Updated hierarchy: Kintzler | Boxberger | Vincent.

August 6, 2020
Miami Marlins – In the second game of a doubleheader, the Marlins gave the ball to Stephen Tarpley for the last out of the eighth inning. He allowed an inherited runner to score, but stuck around for the ninth to earn his first save of the year. Despite the clean save, this doesn’t change our hierarchy as Kintzler had earned a save earlier in the day, with Richard Bleier setting him up. Brad Boxberger was coming off a 23-pitch outing the night before.

Hierarchy remains: Kintzler | Boxberger | Bleier.

August 5, 2020
Miami Marlins – For the first time since July 26, the Marlins actually played a baseball game. After a COVID-19 outbreak put a pause to their season, the Marlins returned to the field with several new faces on the roster. One of those new faces was Richard Bleier, who Miami acquired in a trade with Baltimore. Bleier’s first assignment with the Marlins came Tuesday night against his former club, and he dispatched all three Orioles he faced in a perfect seventh inning. He’ll take over the seventh-inning role vacated by Yimi Garcia, who landed on the IL prior to Tuesday’s game.

Updated hierarchy: Kintzler | Boxberger | Bleier.

July 27, 2020
Miami Marlins – While a sizable contingent of the Marlins tested positive for COVID over the weekend, their bullpen appears largely unaffected for now, and on Sunday, carrying a lead into the 8th inning, they went to veteran Brad Boxberger ahead of Brandon Kintzler, who pitched the 9th. We’ll move Box up accordingly.

Hierarchy change: Kintzler | Boxberger | Y. Garcia.

February 26, 2020
Miami Marlins — The Marlins picked up Brandon Kintzler shortly before the start of spring training, and Don Mattingly quickly anointed him the likely closer, which is understandable given the other options the Marlins have on the roster. Ryne Stanek, who they acquired midseason last year, converted just 1 of his 5 save chances; Drew Steckenrider was injured for most of the season and pitching to a 6+ ERA when he was healthy; and Adam Conley was similarly ineffective. Look for Kintzler and another offseason acquisition, Yimi Garcia, to be the high-leverage guys here, with some mix of the other three also factoring in. 

Starting 2020 Hierarchy: Kintzler | Garcia | Stanek.
Holds candidates: Garcia, Stanek, Steckenrider

September 25, 2019
Miami Marlins — Jose Urena helped keep the Mets’ playoff hopes alive by allowing a game-tying homerun to Michael Conforto in the bottom of the 9th inning.  The Marlins wanted to see if Jose Urena could be their closer of the future and so far, it hasn’t worked out.  Urena has only converted 2 of his 4 save chances, and has given up 10 earned runs in 8 relief innings in September.  

Hierarchy remains: Urena | Stanek | Garcia.

September 23, 2019
Miami Marlins — Late September means weird saves, and Sunday’s went to Jeff Brigham. Congratulations on the first of his career.

Hierarchy remains: Urena | Stanek | Garcia.

September 15, 2019
Miami Marlins — Jose Urena picked up his second save of the season yesterday with a scoreless ninth inning.  Urena hasn’t been great since moving to the bullpen in September (5 ER in 5 IP) but he has recorded both Marlins saves and should continue to be the first choice for saves down the stretch.

Hierarchy remains: Urena | Stanek | Garcia.

September 5, 2019
Miami Marlins — Pitching for the second straight day and third time in four days, Jose Urena blew a two-run lead and took the loss against Pittsburgh. This is unlikely to change Miami’s plan to see how he handles the closer role this month.

Hierarchy remains: *Urena | Stanek | Garcia.
* = closer-by-committee

September 4, 2019
Miami Marlins — Jose Urena pitched a 1-2-3 10th inning to convert his first save opportunity in his new role as the Marlins’ closer. Expect Urena to get a majority of whatever save opportunities the Marlins can muster over the next few weeks.

Hierarchy remains: *Urena | Stanek | Garcia.
* = closer-by-committee

September 2, 2019
Miami Marlins – The Marlins activated Jose Urena before Sunday’s game, and the converted starter pitched a clean inning, albeit in a losing effort. Urena is likely to get a crack at the closer role down the stretch; whether the Marlins find themselves leading late in games is another matter.

Updated hierarchy: *Urena | Stanek | Garcia.
* = closer-by-committee

August 31, 2019
Miami Marlins – Jose Urena is getting close to a return and will be the closer when he does make it back from the IL. Urena has been sidelined for the past three months with a herniated disc and will have to adjust to a bullpen role after spending most of his career as a starter, but he is traveling with the team and may be activated when rosters expand on Sunday. It sounds like Urena has the closer’s job waiting for him when he is activated, so if you are desperate for saves down the stretch, maybe the Marlins can help you out.

Updated hierarchy: *Stanek | Garcia | Brigham.
* = closer-by-committee

August 26, 2019
Miami Marlins – The Marlins posted their first save in over a month, and it was deadline acquisition Ryne Stanek who did the honors. We’ll bump him to the top of the hierarchy and watch to see what the Marlins do once Jose Urena comes back.

Updated hierarchy: *Stanek | Garcia | Quijada.
* = closer-by-committee

August 25, 2019
Miami Marlins – The Marlins, who haven’t recorded a save since July 24th, could have a new closer in September.  Their opening day starter Jose Urena will likely be used as closer when he returns from the IL.   Urena throws hard and could do well in the closer’s role, but don’t expect many saves out of a team who hasn’t converted one in over a month.

Hierarchy remains: *Garcia | Quijada | Stanek.
* = closer-by-committee

August 19, 2019
Miami Marlins – Ryne Stanek got the 9th inning for the Marlins on Sunday, but gave up two runs and blew the save. He was a little unlucky, as one of the runs was unearned, but Stanek hasn’t been sharp since joining the Marlins (9.64 ERA over 5 appearances) so there’s no reason to think he’s the favorite for more saves going forward. We’ll continue to monitor this situation, but only owners in deep leagues should be rostering a Marlins reliever at this point.

Hierarchy remains: *Garcia | Quijada | Stanek.
* = closer-by-committee

August 9, 2019
Miami Marlins — Austin Brice has been activated from the injured list. He was impressive before getting sidelined in July, and he could become a factor in high-leverage innings out of the gate. Meanwhile, Drew Steckenrider is scheduled to visit with Dr. James Andrews for an evaluation of his right elbow. 

Hierarchy remains: *Garcia | Quijada | Stanek.
* = closer-by-committee

August 7, 2019
Miami Marlins — A day after being activated from the IL, Ryne Stanek made his Marlins debut on Tuesday night in his first action since July 19. He allowed one hit and struck out a batter in the eighth inning of a 5-0 loss. Stanek excelled as an opener for the Rays but has a legit chance to close games for the Marlins this season and beyond.

Updated hierarchy: *Garcia | Quijada | Stanek.
* = closer-by-committee

August 1, 2019
Miami Marlins — Nick Anderson’s departure for the west coast of Florida opens a hierarchy role for Tayron Guerrero. Watch Ryne Stanek, though, acquired in the Anderson deal, who could wind up closing here after he returns from the IL.

Updated hierarchy: *Garcia | Quijada | Guerrero.
* = closer-by-committee

July 30, 2019
Miami Marlins – A Monday with zero saves recorded across all of MLB gives us a chance to dive a little deeper into the Marlins recent bullpen usage. Don Mattingly said over the weekend that Nick Anderson had the “most dominant stuff” in the bullpen and that he would likely be used against the heart of the lineup regardless of what inning it is; Mattingly proceeded to use Anderson in the 8th inning of a four-run game on Sunday, and then summoned him for the last out of the game last night, in a game the Marlins were leading by five, but where the Diamondbacks had two runners on base. (Anderson got out of the jam, leading to this epic tweet from the Marlins.) Jarlin Garcia, meanwhile, got the 9th inning on Sunday and was held out of yesterday’s game and is working on a run of 18 straight scoreless innings (14 Ks vs 2 BBs in that span). We’ll continue to watch this one closely, as Mattingly is no stranger to the “relief ace who isn’t the closer” role, having used Kyle Barraclough in that position for the better part of 2016 and 2017. A darkhorse is converted starter Trevor Richards, who was just moved to the bullpen last week.

Hierarchy remains: *Garcia | Anderson | Quijada.
* = closer-by-committee

July 29, 2019
Miami Marlins – The Marlins were leading by four heading into the top of the 8th, whereupon Nick Anderson was tasked with facing a pinch hitter, followed by the top of the Arizona lineup. Anderson had a shaky start to his outing, allowing three of the first four hitters to reach base, but he managed to wiggle out of it, passing the ball to Jarlin Garcia for the 9th. Even though it wasn’t a save chance, based on this usage we have to think Anderson and Garcia are the favorites for saves going forward.

Updated hierarchy: *Garcia | Anderson | Quijada.
* = closer-by-committee

July 28, 2019
Miami Marlins — As we mentioned yesterday, Sergio Romo has been traded to the Twins, and Nick Anderson is expected to close.  There is a chance that Anderson get traded as well, and it’s less clear who is behind him.  One option is Jose Quijada, as he picked up a save earlier this season.  Another sleeper is Jarlin Garcia, who has not allowed an earned run in his last sixteen appearances.  We will slot these two lefties behind Anderson for now.  Tayron Guerrero is a hard throwing righty who profiles more as a traditional closer, but he has struggled since returning from the IL (4 ER in 4 IP) and his high walk rate (28 BBs in 35 IP) might prevent him from being used in the later innings.

Updated hierarchy: Anderson | Quijada| Garcia.

July 27, 2019
Miami Marlins — With Sergio Romo’s departure for Minnesota, Nick Anderson should get the first chance to close ahead of Tayron Guerrero and Adam Conley. Watch for Drew Steckenrider’s return in the next few weeks as well.

Updated hierarchy: Anderson | Guerrero | Conley.

July 17, 2019
Miami Marlins — Austin Brice is headed to the injured list with a forearm strain, but Tayron Guerrero is back to take his place.

Updated hierarchy: Romo | Anderson | Guerrero.

July 7, 2019
Miami Marlins — Austin Brice struck out a pair in a scoreless seventh inning ahead of Nick Anderson and Sergio Romo.  Brice has nine straight scorless outings, covering 10.2 innings.

Updated hierarchy: Romo | Anderson | Brice.

June 30, 2019
Miami Marlins — Sergio Romo has shown no ill effects from the bruised knee injury he suffered a few days ago as he pitched another scoreless inning yesterday for his 15th save of the season.  With Tayron Guerrero on the IL, Nick Anderson assumed set-up duties and pitched a scoreless 8th.  Behind Anderson, lefties Jose Quijada and Jarlin Garcia should see more time in the later innings.

Updated hierarchy: Romo | Anderson | Quijada.

June 29, 2019
Miami Marlins — The day after leaving a game with a bruised knee, Sergio Romo pitched a scoreless ninth inning in a four-run game. This wasn’t a save situation, but it was certainly a relief for Romo owners to see him right back in the mix. 

Hierarchy remains: Romo | Guerrero | Anderson.

June 28, 2019
Miami Marlins — Pitching for the first time in six days, Sergio Romo had to be removed from Thursday’s game with a knee bruise after colliding with Trea Turner. He limped off the field and was in obvious pain, but the Marlins think he’ll be fine. Still, this situation is worth monitoring.

Hierarchy remains: Romo | Guerrero | Anderson.

June 24, 2019
Miami Marlins – The Marlins gave Sergio Romo a second night off after he’d gone four in a row, allowing Nick Anderson to pick up his first save of the season.

Updated hierarchy: Romo | Guerrero | Anderson.

June 23, 2019
Miami Marlins — The Marlins gave Sergio Romo the day off yesterday and used lefty Jose Quijada for the last two outs of the game.  Quijada was just recently called back up, but he has recorded two holds and a save in his three appearances so we will move him onto the hierarchy.

Updated hierarchy: Romo | Guerrero | Quijada.

June 19, 2019
Miami Marlins — Adam Conley’s recent struggles have allowed Tayron Guerrero and Nick Anderson to dislodge him from the late innings in Miami.

Updated hierarchy: Romo | Guerrero | Anderson.

May 22, 2019
Miami Marlins — Tayron Guerrero pitched the eighth inning ahead of Sergio Romo, striking out two of the three hitters he faced. Guerrero, who hit 101.1 on the radar gun last night, now has an eighth-inning hold in each of his last two appearances. We’ll move him ahead of Nick Anderson, who bounced back from a rough outing on Saturday with five strikeouts over two innings to earn an extra-innings win on Tuesday.

Updated hierarchy: Romo | Conley | Guerrero.

May 19, 2019
Miami Marlins — Adam Conley closed out the Marlins 2-0 victory yesterday to pick up his second save of the season.  Sergio Romo went two innings for the save the day before so the Marlins likely wanted to give him a day off.  Tayron Guerrero recorded his first hold of the season ahead of Conley.  Nick Anderson struggled his last time out in a high-leverage situation so we will monitor who settles into that seventh inning role.

Hierarchy remains: Romo | Conley | Anderson.

May 9, 2019
Miami Marlins — Drew Steckenrider has right elbow inflammation and will get some time on the injured list to recover. Aside from a nightmare outing last Saturday, Nick Anderson has been very impressive (29 K in 15.2 IP). He and Tayron Guerrero should pick up the slack.

Updated hierarchy: Romo | Conley | Anderson.

May 2, 2019
Miami Marlins — Miami’s closer committee, like so many, has gone out with a whimper. Sergio Romo has converted all four save chances in the last 12 days.

Updated hierarchy: Romo | Steckenrider | Conley.

April 7, 2019
Miami Marlins – The Marlins bullpen threw five scoreless innings yesterday and Drew Steckenrider, Sergio Romo, and Adam Conley combined for the last three. Steckenrider pitched a perfect seventh, Romo had a perfect eighth and came back out for the first out of the ninth. That meant lefty Adam Conley was used for the last two outs and picked up his first save of the season. This looks like a true committee and all three guys could get the save on any given night.

Hierarchy remains: *Romo | Steckenrider | Conley.
* = closer-by-committee

April 1, 2019
Miami Marlins – The first save chance of the Marlins’ season went to Wei-Yin Chen, but the lefty immediately put two runners on base before giving way to Sergio Romo, who locked down the save. This one seemed matchup based, as Chen faced two lefties to start the inning, and there’s still no odds-on favorite for a save in Miami on any given night.

Hierarchy remains: *Romo | Steckenrider | Conley.
* = closer-by-committee

March 22, 2019
Miami Marlins – Before spring action began, Don Mattingly indicated he’d mix and match in the ninth inning among a group that includes Drew Steckenrider, Sergio Romo and Adam Conley. That plan appears to still be in place, but Steckenrider (9.82 ERA) has had a rough spring, while Romo (3.68 ERA, 0.68 WHIP) has impressed. Complicating things is the Marlins’ likelihood to use Romo as their relief ace and opener at times, and the fact that the Marlins probably won’t win many games at all, leaving this situation one of the most volatile in baseball. Perhaps Romo begins the season at the top of the pecking order? Stay tuned.

Hierarchy remains: *Romo | Steckenrider | Conley.
* = closer-by-committee

February 21, 2019
Miami Marlins – With Kyle Barraclough shipped off to the Nationals in an October deal, the team will likely turn closing duties over to recent acquisition Sergio Romo, hard-throwing righty Drew Steckenrider, or lefty Adam Conley. We think Steckenrider could have a slight edge right now — the Marlins might use Romo as an opener, among other things — but this could easily go to any of the three, or become a closer-by-committee situation. Regardless, it gets pretty thin after these guys, as the only two other relievers entering camp with significant MLB experience are Tayron Guerrero and Jarlin Garcia, neither of whom have ever been more than serviceable. Look for them to be joined by a mix of youngsters (Riley Ferrell is a former 3rd round pick and Jose Quijada has impressive minor league numbers) and/or whoever doesn’t win the 4th/5th starter jobs (Trevor Richards, Pablo Lopez, Sandy Alcantara, etc.)

Starting 2019 hierarchy: *Steckenrider | Romo | Conley.
* = closer-by-committee
Holds candidates: Conley, Guerrero, Garcia. 

September 18, 2018
Miami Marlins – Adam Conley recorded his third save of the season on Monday. Drew Steckenrider had pitched the previous two nights, but while Steckenrider is nominally the first choice for saves here, this should continue to be a committee for the remainder of the season.

Hierarchy remains: *Steckenrider | Conley | Barraclough.
* = closer-by-committee

September 1, 2018
Miami Marlins – The Marlins’ bullpen has been in shambles recently. Last night they blew a four-run lead in the 9th, with Drew Steckenrider taking the loss after Kyle Barraclough loaded the bases with only one out. Miami’s best option isn’t clear right now, but with a month to go in the season, if anybody can string together a few good appearances, they may hold onto the job for the rest of the way. Keep an eye out for any good performances from Adam Conley, Steckenrider or Barraclough, as they could be a cheap addition that snags some vital saves in the fantasy playoffs.

Hierarchy remains: *Steckenrider | Conley | Barraclough.
* = closer-by-committee

August 26, 2018
Miami Marlins – The Marlins called on Drew Steckenrider to protect a three-run lead in the ninth, and although he gave up a homer, he was able to record his second save of the season.  Kyle Barraclough got the eighth inning hold ahead of Steckenrider with a scoreless inning.  Steckenrider, Conley and now Barraclough are probably all in the mix for saves and we will see if any one of them can run away with the job.

Updated hierarchy: *Steckenrider | Conley | Barraclough.
* = closer-by-committee

August 25, 2018
Miami Marlins – Drew Steckinrider pitched a clean 8th inning, and with three lefties due up to start the ninth, that opened the door for Adam Conley to get the save opportunity in a 1 run game. Conley pitched a clean 9th and earned his 2nd save on the year. Conley has been good, outside of a 5 run meltdown on August 14, but he would need at least one more clear save chance before he moves to the top of the committee. In other news, Kyle Barraclough was activated from the DL, and will be used in high leverage spots “gradually.” He will likely return to the hierarchy soon, but we want to see how Don Mattingly deploys him

Hierarchy remains: *Steckenrider | Conley | Guerra.
* = closer-by-committee

August 19, 2018
Miami Marlins – Drew Steckenrider got his first save chance since Kyle Barraclough was removed from the closer’s role, but he couldn’t convert.  He gave up a game-tying home run to the first batter he faced but was able to get out the inning without any further damage to keep the game tied.  Steckenrider ended up with the win after the Marlins took the lead back in the top of the 10th and Brett Graves picked up his first career save with a scoreless bottom of the inning.  Graves has made eleven appearances for the Marlins and the Marlins have 9 losses and 2 wins in those games.  In the 2 wins, Graves has a win and a save so he is certainly making the most of his appearances in Marlins’ wins.  Adam Conley threw 1.2 scoreless innings earlier in the game and could be an option for the next save chance, but he gave up 5 runs in his previous outing so we will see where the Marlins turn next.

Hierarchy remains: *Steckenrider | Conley | Guerra.
* = closer-by-committee

August 11, 2018
Miami Marlins – Former closer Kyle Barraclough was placed on the 10-day DL with lower back stiffness. We’ll see if this break will help him eventually get right and get back into his early-season form.

Hierarchy remains: *Steckenrider | Conley | Guerra.
* = closer-by-committee

August 8, 2018
Miami Marlins – Don Mattingly announced yesterday that Kyle Barraclough is out as Marlins closer for the time being. Mattingly said he’d use a committee in the ninth inning for now — we like Drew Steckenrider to lead it.

Updated hierarchy: *Steckenrider | Conley | Guerra.
* = closer-by-committee

August 7, 2018
Miami Marlins – As was foreshadowed in his comments last night, Don Mattingly said this afternoon that Kyle Barraclough would be removed from the closer role from the time being. Mattingly said he’d use a committee in the 9th inning for now — we like Drew Steckenrider to lead it.

Updated hierarchy: *Steckenrider | Conley | Guerra.
* = closer-by-committee

August 7, 2018
Miami Marlins – Kyle Barraclough entered the game with a 2-run lead and immediately gave up two singles and a walk to start the inning. He then ran the count full to Kolten Wong before striking him out looking on a backdoor slider that was almost certainly not a strike, then walked the next hitter on five pitches to force in a run. Javy Guerra was then summoned, and induced a game-ending double play to pick up the save. After the game, Mattingly was noncommital about the closer role going forward, saying he “wouldn’t do anything without talking to everybody.” We’ll see if there’s a change afoot later today after Mattingly talks to everybody — add Drew Steckenrider now, if you haven’t done so already.

Hierarchy remains: Barraclough | Steckenrider | Conley.

August 4, 2018
Miami Marlins — We thought Kyle Barraclough would lose his job as closer, but Don Mattingly has other ideas. Mattingly said before yesterday’s game that Barraclough will remain the closer, but that he will be “top-stepping” it in the dugout when Barraclough pitches until further notice. It’s still worth holding on to Drew Steckenrider, as it looks like another bad outing will seal Barraclough’s fate.

Hierarchy remains: Barraclough | Steckenrider | Conley.

August 3, 2018
Miami Marlins — Things have not gone smoothly for Kyle Barraclough lately. Thursday marked his third consecutive blown save and second walk-off homer in two weeks. After the game, Don Mattingly didn’t want to make any knee-jerk decisions, but he promised to “talk about” changing things in the ninth. You’ve been warned. Handcuff yourself with Drew Steckenrider before it’s too late.

Hierarchy remains: Barraclough | Steckenrider | Conley.

August 1, 2018
Miami Marlins — Adam Conley heads into the hierarchy after Brad Ziegler’s move to Arizona.

Updated hierarchy: Barraclough | Steckenrider | Conley.

July 29, 2018
Miami Marlins — Kyle Barraclough couldn’t hold a one run lead in the ninth yesterday and blew his second consecutive save chance.  Barraclough is another closer who has drawn a lot of interest in the trade market, and although the Marlins are rumored to be asking for a lot in return, some teams may be willing to overpay to get him.

Hierarchy remains: Barraclough | Steckenrider | Ziegler.

July 21, 2018
Miami Marlins — Kyle Barraclough was out due to illness, so the Marlins turned to Javy Guerra to start the 9th inning with a five-run lead. He got an out, but left the bases loaded for Drew Steckenrider, who gave up a bases-clearing triple followed by a sac fly to make it a one-run game. Adam Conley then came in and shut the door for his first career save. Barraclough may be unavailable tonight as well and has been mentioned as a potential trade target, but as you can see in our trade deadline article, it will take a high price to pull Barraclough from the Marlins.

Hierarchy remains: Barraclough | Steckenrider | Ziegler.

July 5, 2018
Miami Marlins — You weren’t surprised to see Brad Ziegler get the Independence Day save for Miami. Nothing surprises you. You read the Vulture Save Watch.

Hierarchy remains: Barraclough | Steckenrider | Ziegler.

June 17, 2018
Miami Marlins — Drew Steckenrider pitched a scoreless ninth yesterday for his first save of the season.  Kyle Barraclough got the day off after pitching in two straight and four of five, but you already knew that was going to happen since you read yesterday’s Vulture Save Watch.  Steckenrider should continue to see save chances when Barraclough is unavailable.

Hierarchy remains: Barraclough | Steckenrider | Ziegler.

June 6, 2018
Miami Marlins — Brad Ziegler surprisingly pitched the eighth inning of a three-run game Tuesday night. Even more surprisingly, it went well, as he needed just seven pitches to get the ball to Kyle Barraclough for the save. Adam Conley is better than Ziegler and even earned his first hold of the year during last night’s sixth inning. However, if Don Mattingly somehow trusts Ziegler in the eighth inning with a lead, then it’s more likely than not that Ziegler would get the ninth inning if both Barraclough and Drew Steckenrider were unavailable. Sorry, Adam, but the hierarchy doesn’t necessarily feature a team’s three best relievers. This is one of those times.

Updated hierarchy: Barraclough | Steckenrider | Ziegler.

June 3, 2018
Miami Marlins — Nick Wittgren has been placed on the DL with a bruised finger.  Former starter Adam Conley has been pitching well out of the bullpen and the Marlins hope he can take on an Andrew Miller-like role.  With Wittgren on the DL, the Marlins may get a chance to try Conley more in that role.

Updated hierarchy: Barraclough | Steckenrider | Conley.

June 1, 2018
Miami Marlins — To no one’s surprise, Brad Ziegler lost his job as the Marlins’ closer. Manager Don Mattingly announced the move before the game, but waited until after the game — an 8-3 loss to the Padres — to confirm our assessment that Kyle Barraclough has earned the job outright. “This is his chance to show he can be that guy,” Mattingly said. The manager also made sure to mention that, like Barraclough, Drew Steckenrider has closer potential. Ziegler, 38, will be a free agent next year and could be nearing the end of a successful professional career that began in 2003 with the Batavia Muckdogs.

Updated hierarchy: Barraclough | Steckenrider | Wittgren.

May 31, 2018
Miami Marlins — As we suspected after last night’s blown save, Brad Ziegler is out as closer in Miami. Mattingly did not announce a replacement but we think Kyle Barraclough will take over the ninth inning for the Marlins, with Drew Steckenrider moving up to be the go-to guy in the eighth.

Updated hierarchy: Barraclough | Steckenrider | Wittgren. 

May 31, 2018
Miami Marlins — So much for the narrative that Brad Ziegler is lights-out in save situations. Given a one-run lead in the ninth, Ziegler gave up a walk and a double, loaded the bases with an intentional walk, and then saw the Padres walk off on an infield single and a throwing error. Kyle Barraclough could have this job as soon as Thursday night, especially after Don Mattingly’s postgame comments about wanting something “dependable” in the ninth. Consider this a pre-alert.

Hierarchy remains: Ziegler | Barraclough | Steckenrider. 

May 27, 2018
Miami Marlins – The Marlins called on their closer Brad Ziegler to pitch the ninth inning of a tie game, and it didn’t go well.  Ziegler took the loss, giving up three runs while only recording two outs.  Ziegler’s ERA is now 7.54, but he is also 9 for 9 in save chances.  It’s pretty hard for a closer to lose his job without blowing a save, but Ziegler has to be on the edge.

Hierarchy remains: Ziegler | Barraclough | Steckenrider. 

May 21, 2018
Miami Marlins – The Braves rallied for 6 runs in a walkoff victory Sunday afternoon, with the first four coming against Brad Ziegler. With Drew Steckenrider and Kyle Barraclough having already pitched, Tayron Guerrero was tasked with getting the game’s final out, and he wasn’t up to the task. Ziegler had converted four straight saves prior to the outing, so we don’t actually think he’s out of a job yet, but at some point, the fact that he has given up literally four times as many earned runs this year as Barraclough (in fewer innings!) has to catch up with him.

Hierarchy remains: Ziegler | Barraclough | Steckenrider. 

April 30, 2018
Miami Marlins – Brad Ziegler picked up a crucial save on Sunday, striking out two hitters in a clean 9th inning. The outing should buy Ziegler another opportunity or two, though Kyle Barraclough, who logged Saturday’s save, continues to loom. Drew Steckenrider, meanwhile, remains the darkhorse to seize this job despite probably having the best numbers of the three thus far.

Hierarchy remains: Ziegler | Barraclough | Steckenrider.

April 29, 2018
Miami Marlins — With Brad Ziegler not 100%, the Marlins turned to Kyle Barraclough to protect a three-run lead.  Barraclough responded by striking out the side for his first save of the season.  Ziegler has not pitched particularly well so far this season and this could be a preview of things to come if his struggles continue.

Hierarchy remains: Ziegler | Barraclough | Steckenrider.

April 27, 2018
Miami Marlins — Kyle Barraclough was away from the team Wednesday night because of a death in the family. He hasn’t been placed on the bereavement list yet, but that could happen before Friday’s game if he needs more time.

Hierarchy remains: Ziegler | Barraclough | Steckenrider.

April 26, 2018
Miami Marlins — The woeful Marlins may have picked up their seventh win of the year last night against LA, but 38-year-old Brad Ziegler’s struggles continued with a three-run ninth. The closer has converted both his save chances, but with those in short supply, he’s thrown in some other situations as well. And he’s been really bad in those, running up a 10.39 ERA over seven non-save appearances. With two strikeout machines behind him in Kyle Barraclough and Drew Steckenrider, Ziegler needs to start living every week like it’s Shark Week, or he may find himself set adrift.

Hierarchy remains: Ziegler | Barraclough | Steckenrider.

April 11, 2018
Miami Marlins – Kyle Barraclough allowed his first two earned runs of the season on Tuesday as the Mets rallied to tie the game in the eighth inning. Brad Ziegler and his 7.94 ERA wasn’t much better on Tuesday, as he gave up two more runs in the ninth. The arm to keep an eye on in Miami is Drew Steckenrider, who owns a 0.00 ERA and has struck out seven against just one walk in 5.2 IP. Hard to ignore his strong start, especially given Ziegler’s struggles.

Hierarchy remains: Ziegler | Barraclough | Steckenrider.

February 28, 2018
Miami Marlins – Brad Ziegler starts off as the Marlins closer in 2018, despite Don Mattingly seemingly acknowledging that Kyle Barraclough is probably the best arm in the bullpen. Barraclough is the only one who could challenge Ziegler for the role in the early going, but we’re guessing that won’t happen unless the submariner has a dreadful start to the season. Drew Steckenrider and Nick Wittgren both averaged more than a strikeout per inning last year, and are your holds candidates behind Barraclough. Veteran Junichi Tazawa may also have a late-inning role, though we suspect his best days are behind him.

Starting 2018 hierarchy: Ziegler | Barraclough | Steckenrider.
Holds candidates: Barraclough | Steckenrider | Wittgren.

September 30, 2017
Miami Marlins — Brad Ziegler got a rare one-pitch double-play save for his 10th of the year. The last time this happened was David Robertson on September 29 last year. The Marlins committee will continue through the weekend as they finish up another year outside the playoffs.

Hierarchy remains: *Barraclough | Ziegler | Steckenrider.
* = closer-by-committee

September 26, 2017
Miami Marlins – Kyle Barraclough blew his first chance at closing earlier this month, but the Marlins gave him another look in the 9th inning yesterday, and Barraclough converted for his first save of the year. Like with the Mets and Jeurys Familia, the Marlins might just let Barraclough close for the season’s final week with an eye on 2018. Committee tag, aweigh!

Updated hierarchy: *Barraclough | Ziegler | Steckenrider.
* = closer-by-committee

September 19, 2017
Miami Marlins – Before Monday night’s game, the Marlins said that Brad Ziegler was available to pitch, having apparently recovered from a nagging back injury. But the team wouldn’t need him, as they ran out to a huge lead against the Mets, allowing Vance Worley to pitch the final three innings and earn his first save of the year. Worley does not figure into the usual late inning plans in Miami.

Hierarchy remains: Ziegler | Barraclough | Steckenrider.

September 13, 2017
Miami Marlins — Brad Ziegler has been nursing a bad back and is awaiting results from a recent MRI. He is hopeful to pitch this week. In the meantime, Kyle Barraclough blew the Marlins’ first save chance on Tuesday in the ninth inning before Brian Ellington blew another one-run lead in the 10th. Barraclough should see any remaining save chances for the duration of Ziegler’s absence, though Drew Steckenrider may get a chance or two as well.

Hierarchy remains: Ziegler | Barraclough | Steckenrider.

September 3, 2017
Miami Marlins — With Brad Ziegler and Kyle Barraclough unavailable yesterday after pitching in the previous two games, the Marlins turned to Drew Steckenrider.  Steckenrider struck out three batters in 1.1 innings en route to his first career save.

Hierarchy remains: Ziegler | Barraclough | Steckenrider.

August 19, 2017
Miami Marlins — Drew Streckenrider picked up his third seventh-inning hold in a week (striking out the side!) and is a solid second in line for the Marlins.

Updated hierarchy: Ziegler | Barraclough | Steckenrider.

August 16, 2017
Miami Marlins – Kyle Barraclough returned from the DL on Tuesday and got work in a low-leverage eighth inning after Junichi Tazawa allowed a hit to each of the four hitters he faced in the seventh, blowing a 4-3 lead. Don Mattingly said before Tuesday’s game that Barraclough will immediately return to high-leverage situations. There’s a good chance he closes again by the end of the season. There’s also a good chance Tazawa is out of the mix, as it will be hard to keep Drew Steckenrider (2.00 ERA, 12.00 K/9) out of the late-inning conversation.

Updated hierarchy: Ziegler | Barraclough | Tazawa.

August 14, 2017
Miami Marlins – Brad Ziegler got the day off on Sunday, but Junichi Tazawa ended up staying in his traditional 8th inning role, allowing Odrisamer Despaigne to pick up his first career save. We’re guessing this was a one-off opportunity, and that it’s unlikely that Despaigne plays much of a role in the late innings going forward.

Hierarchy remains: Ziegler | Tazawa | Steckenrider.

July 29, 2017
Miami Marlins — We told you last night that A.J. Ramos had been traded to Miami, that Junichi Tazawa was next in line for saves, and that Brad Ziegler would also be an option when he returned from the disabled list. In the wee hours of the morning, Marlins executive Michael Hill said that the 37-year-old Ziegler would be activated prior to Saturday’s game, making him the #1 option for saves going forward. Behind him are Tazawa and Drew Steckenrider, who has five saves at AAA this season. Kyle Barraclough is probably the best long-term bet once he returns from a shoulder injury.

Updated hierarchy:  Ziegler | Tazawa | Steckenrider.

July 28, 2017
Miami Marlins — As Ken Rosenthal first reported, closer A.J. Ramos has been traded to the Mets, leaving Junichi Tazawa as the heir apparent in the Miami bullpen. Brad Ziegler, who pitched a scoreless inning yesterday in a rehab assignment, should be back with the team soon and could also get some save opportunities.

Updated hierarchy:  Tazawa | Garcia | Steckenrider.

July 27, 2017
Miami Marlins — The Marlins placed Kyle Barraclough on the 10-day DL Wednesday. Junichi Tazawa will become the team’s primary setup man ahead of AJ Ramos, with left-handed rookie Jarlin Garcia likely to see some more late-inning work. If Barraclough remains on the shelf for an extended period of time and Ramos is traded, Tazawa could end up as the Marlins’ closer. Another name to keep an eye on in that scenario is Brad Ziegler, whose return is imminent if a rehab appearance on Thursday goes smoothly.

Updated hierarchy: Ramos | Tazawa | Garcia.

July 23, 2017
Miami Marlins — With the rumors still swirling about closer AJ Ramos being dealt, manager Don Mattingly offered his thoughts on who could close if Ramos is dealt.  Kyle Barraclough would be Mattingly’s preference to close.  Claw is a good speculative add if you are looking for help in the saves category.

Hierarchy remains: Ramos | Barraclough | Tazawa.

July 22, 2017
Miami Marlins — Don Mattingly likes how Junichi Tazawa has pitched since his return from the disabled list, and will continue to use him in the seventh inning. With trade rumors continuing to swirl around AJ Ramos, Tazawa could earn even greater responsibilities soon.

Updated hierarchy: Ramos | Barraclough | Tazawa.

July 21, 2017
Miami Marlins — With David Phelps shipped to Seattle, expect Kyle Barraclough to step into the primary eighth-inning role. Jarlin Garcia and Junichi Tazawa may get looks in the seventh inning behind Barraclough and A.J. Ramos, who’s still a Marlin, for now.

Updated hierarchy: Ramos | Barraclough | Garcia.

June 15, 2017
Miami Marlins — After struggling with control (21 BB in his first 22.1 IP), Kyle Barraclough has righted the ship. Wednesday’s clean fifth inning was his fourth straight walkless outing. The Marlins have given Barraclough a recent rest from high-leverage use, but we think his renaissance keeps him ahead of Brad Ziegler and Nick Wittgren in the Miami pen.

Hierarchy remains: Ramos | Phelps | Barraclough.

June 3, 2017
Miami Marlins — David Phelps’s scoreless eighth inning on Friday was his 17th straight appearance without allowing an earned run. While Kyle Barraclough hasn’t been awful, Phelps has earned the primary setup role.

Updated hierarchy: Ramos | Phelps | Barraclough.

May 24, 2017
Miami Marlins – A.J. Ramos struggled through a second straight poor outing as the clock neared 2 a.m., eventually locking down an 11-9 win after he entered the game with a five-run advantage. Ramos, who was warming while the Marlins extended their lead in the 8th, has now allowed four hits and five earned runs over the last two games, neither of which were save situations. We’ll see if Ramos can right the ship, though the Marlins have provided him few save chances so far this season.

Hierarchy remains: Ramos | Barraclough | Phelps.

May 15, 2017
Miami Marlins – After a bad start to the season that saw his ERA climb to 8.10 on April 21, David Phelps has righted the ship. Last night, he pitched his 9th consecutive scoreless inning, a stretch in which he has only allowed 1 hit. His K/BB ratio is 8/5 in that span, so he hasn’t been perfect by any means, but the Marlins felt confident enough in him to give him the 8th inning last night ahead of A.J. Ramos. Don Mattingly has always been fond of Phelps, and if he uses him in another spot like this, the converted starter might have re-established himself as the set-up man in Miami.

Updated hierarchy: Ramos | Barraclough | Phelps.

May 6, 2017
Miami Marlins — Brad Ziegler entered with a four-run lead and left behind one, after giving up six consecutive hits. Kyle Barraclough was called on to clean up Ziegler’s mess, and should have moved ahead of him in the Marlins’ pecking order.

Updated hierarchy: Ramos | Barraclough | Ziegler.

May 1, 2017
Miami Marlins – Kyle Barraclough pitched the top of the 7th in a one-run game before the Marlins blew it open in the bottom half. The outing earned The Claw his 4th hold of the season, tied for the team lead with Brad Ziegler and two ahead of David Phelps, who has struggled to the tune of a 5.79 ERA (and 1.57 WHIP) thus far.

Updated hierarchy: Ramos | Ziegler | Barraclough.

March 1, 2017
Miami Marlins — The Marlins bulked up their bullpen in the offseason, adding a few relievers with closing experience in Brad Ziegler and Junichi Tazawa. Ziegler, who was given a 2-year, $16 million contract, will likely set up for closer A.J. Ramos, while Tazawa will compete for holds alongside last year’s holdovers, David Phelps and Kyle Barraclough.

Starting 2017 hierarchy: Ramos | Ziegler | Phelps.
Holds candidates: Ziegler, Phelps, Barraclough, Tazawa.

September 21, 2016
Miami Marlins – With A.J. Ramos requiring a night off, it was David Phelps, and not Fernando Rodney, who faced the heart of the Washington order in the ninth inning. Phelps did the job, preserving a 1-0 lead and moving past Rodney in the Miami hierarchy.

Updated hierarchy: Ramos | Phelps | Rodney.

September 20, 2016
Miami Marlins – A.J. Ramos locked down the save after giving up a lead-off double to Wilson Ramos, and the Marlins are still in the wild card chase, albeit four games back. With Miami engaged in a race for the playoffs, we expect Ramos to be the clear number one option for saves for the rest of the season.

Hierarchy remains: Ramos | Rodney | Phelps.

September 15, 2016
Miami Marlins – David Phelps returned from the disabled list and also returned to the Miami bullpen, splitting the 8th inning with Mike Dunn. Phelps, who set up for A.J. Ramos for a time earlier this year, re-enters the hierarchy as a reliable bridge to the late-inning guys.

Updated hierarchy: Ramos | Rodney | Phelps.

September 12, 2016
Miami Marlins – It was only a one-out save, but A.J. Ramos showed he was up to the task despite his troublesome finger. He remains the most likely choice for saves for the Marlins down the stretch.

Hierarchy remains: *Ramos | Rodney | Barraclough.
* = closer-by-committee

September 11, 2016
Miami Marlins — A.J. Ramos is dealing with discomfort  in the finger he fractured in early August.  Fernando Rodney hasn’t been pitching well, but the injury to Ramos means both All-Stars should be in the mix for saves the rest of the season.

Hierarchy remains: *Ramos | Rodney | Barraclough.
*  = closer-by-committee

September 10, 2016
Miami Marlins — Fernando Rodney has struggled recently as head of the Miami committee, giving up six runs over four September appearances. On Friday, he gave up a leadoff homer and two singles before being pulled with no outs — but A.J. Ramos came in and set down three straight to record the save. We think Ramos is back ahead in the Miami ‘pen.

Updated hierarchy: *Ramos | Rodney | Barraclough.
*  = closer-by-committee

August 25, 2016
Miami Marlins — It wasn’t a huge surprise when Don Mattingly called on Fernando Rodney in a save situation on Wednesday, and it certainly didn’t shock anyone when Rodney loaded the bases, then managed to escape. But it was unusual when the manager suggested he might leave Rodney in the closer role down the stretch, in part to take advantage of A.J. Ramos’s ability to pitch “multiple innings.” The team hasn’t made an official announcement — and might never do so — but we’re going to call it a committee at this point, with Rodney taking the first chair. Ramos stays in the lead for next year, though; Rodney’s 2017 team option is on the rise, due to incentives for appearances and games finished.

Updated hierarchy: *Rodney | Ramos | Barraclough.
*  = closer-by-committee

August 22, 2016
Miami Marlins – In his first action since being activated, A.J. Ramos pitched the 8th inning ahead of Fernando Rodney. Ramos is being worked back in slowly, but he should be closing again soon, perhaps as soon as his next appearance.

Updated hierarchy: Ramos | Rodney | Barraclough.

August 10, 2016
Miami Marlins – A.J. Ramos was placed on the disabled list Tuesday, and later that night Fernando Rodney picked up the save. One name to keep an eye on is Brian Ellington, who picked up his first hold of the season and lowered his ERA to 0.61. He may see more high-leverage chances with Ramos on the DL.

Updated hierarchy: Rodney | Barraclough | Dunn.

August 9, 2016
Miami Marlins – A.J. Ramos’s finger injury was apparently more serious than the team let on, and he’s expected to be placed on the disabled list. Fernando Rodney, who got the save on Sunday, should close in his place.

Updated hierarchy: Rodney | Barraclough | Dunn.

August 8, 2016
Miami Marlins – A.J. Ramos has been dealing with a jammed finger, and while the Marlins have not discussed a stint on the disabled list, Ramos was apparently unavailable for the weekend. On Sunday, Fernando Rodney picked up his 18th save of the season — and first for the Marlins — in Ramos’s stead.

Hierarchy remains: Ramos | Rodney | Barraclough.

August 6, 2016
Miami Marlins — After 50 appearances from the bullpen, David Phelps returned to the starting rotation Friday, pitching 4.1 scoreless innings on 70 pitches. Kyle Barraclough has earned three holds this week and will be Miami’s main seventh-inning man.

Updated hierarchy: Ramos | Rodney | Barraclough.

July 2, 2016
Miami Marlins — On Friday, Don Mattingly made it official that A.J. Ramos would remain Miami’s closer, tempting the baseball gods by saying, “He’s been perfect.” Ramos proceeded to blow his first save of the year last night, giving up the tying home run. Since freshly shaven setup man Fernando Rodney had pitched the eighth, Dustin McGowan wound up with the save once the Marlins took the lead in the twelfth. Ramos has indeed been excellent, so one blown save won’t change Mattingly’s mind, but with Rodney putting up some of the best numbers of the year, Ramos’s seat is a little bit warmer.

Hierarchy remains: Ramos | Rodney | Phelps.

July 1, 2016
Miami Marlins – The Marlins acquired San Diego closer Fernando Rodney on Thursday, but he did not play against the Braves. Manager Don Mattingly said he will announce his intentions with Rodney on Friday, but we believe he will stick with A.J. Ramos, who has converted 33 straight save opportunities, as his closer.

Updated hierarchy: Ramos | Rodney | Phelps.

June 24, 2016
Miami Marlins – As the Vulture Save Watch foreshadowed, David Phelps got the call in the ninth inning Thursday, picking up his third save of the season after loading up the bases with just one out. A.J. Ramos had pitched in four of the last five days, but should be good to go on Friday.

Hierarchy remains: Ramos | Phelps | Barraclough.

June 2, 2016
Miami Marlins – Mike Dunn faced one batter in his first appearance of the season on Wednesday and was tagged with a blown save after allowing a pair of inherited runners to score, tying the game. Dunn’s return from the DL finally gives the Marlins a left-handed choice in the late innings and he will be another option for holds in Miami.

Hierarchy remains: Ramos | Phelps | Barraclough.

May 10, 2016
Miami Marlins – AJ Ramos had a rough night last night, walking three straight Brewers while trying to maintain a four-run lead. He gave up one run before getting bailed out by Bryan Morris, who nabbed his first save of the season. Despite his poor outing, Ramos is still the guy in South Florida.

Hierarchy remains: Ramos | Phelps | Barraclough.

May 7, 2016
Miami Marlins — As we predicted, A.J. Ramos got a break on Friday, and David Phelps nailed down his second vulture save for the red-hot Fish.

Hierarchy remains: Ramos | Phelps | Barraclough.

May 1, 2016
Miami Marlins — As expected, A.J. Ramos got the night off on Saturday, and David Phelps recorded his first save of the season. Kyle Barraclough pitched a scoreless 8th inning ahead of Phelps, and those two, along with closer Ramos, are forming a very solid back end of the bullpen for the Marlins.

Hierarchy remains: Ramos | Phelps | Barraclough.

April 29, 2016
Miami Marlins — Hard-throwing righty Kyle Barraclough, acquired by the Marlins in the Steve Cishek trade, is off to a torrid start this season (6.2 innings, 0 ER, 11 Ks), and yesterday picked up his third consecutive hold, pitching the seventh inning ahead of David Phelps and A.J. Ramos. He’s only 25 years old, his fastball averages 96 mph, and the correct pronunciation of his name is wonderful. What’s not to love?

Updated hierarchy: Ramos | Phelps | Barraclough.

April 28, 2016
Miami Marlins — A.J. Ramos was unavailable after throwing in three straight games last night and the Vulture Save Watch predicted that David Phelps would get the save opportunity. However, it didn’t predict that he and manager Don Mattingly would be ejected from the game for arguing balls and strikes in the 8th inning. This left recently recalled Jose Urena to get out of a bases-loaded jam, which he did by striking out Yasiel Puig and getting a pop out from Adrian Gonzalez. Urena stuck around for the 9th and picked up his first career save. Urena is a converted starter, who was initially tagged for middle relief, but after this impressive outing he may find himself in higher-leverage situations quickly.

Hierarchy remains: Ramos | Phelps | Morris.

April 22, 2016
Miami Marlins — With the Marlins struggling, Don Mattingly treated a four-run game like it was even tighter, using David Phelps in the eighth and A.J. Ramos in the ninth. When it comes to Phelps getting more use late in games, Donnie Baseball is a man of his word.

Updated hierarchy: Ramos | Phelps | Morris.

April 19, 2016
Miami Marlins – Don Mattingly recently told the media that he is looking to use David Phelps later in games. We will take Donny Baseball at his word for now and slip Phelps into the hierarchy, and we also wouldn’t be surprised if he eventually takes over the set-up man role.

Updated hierarchy: Ramos | Morris | Phelps.

April 4, 2016
Miami Marlins – Mike Dunn has hit the DL for the first time in his career. The move is retroactive to March 25, so he’ll be eligible to return relatively soon, but in the mean time, look for Craig Breslow to get the important lefties in late game spots.

Updated hierarchy: Ramos | Morris | Breslow.

March 9, 2016
Miami Marlins — Carter Capps indeed tore his UCL and will be out 10-12 months after Tommy John surgery. Don Mattingly name-checked Kyle Barraclough and Brian Ellington, along with Mike Dunn, as relievers who will get a chance to set up Bryan Morris and A.J. Ramos.

Hierarchy change: Ramos | Morris | Dunn.

March 2, 2016
Miami Marlins – News broke Tuesday that Carter Capps was headed for an MRI on his throwing elbow, potentially scuttling what would have been one of the more interesting Spring Training closer battles. If Capps is OK, he has the potential to be something special, regardless of where you stand on his illegal delivery. But elbow MRIs rarely end well, meaning AJ Ramos is likely to start the season as the Miami closer, with Bryan Morris and Mike Dunn behind him. We will monitor Capps closely.

Starting 2016 hierarchy: Ramos | Capps | Morris.
Holds candidates: Capps, Morris, Dunn.

September 26, 2015
Miami Marlins — Guess we spoke too soon on that whole Carter Capps return. The simulated game went fine, but he woke up the next day with “discomfort,” and decided to shut it down for the year. If Bill James and Rob Neyer have their way, Capps’s funky delivery could be outlawed in the offseason. The Marlins are suffering without him, giving back five runs from a six-run lead in the seventh and eighth on Friday night. Bryan Morris and Mike Dunn pitched to three batters and put each one on base.

Hierarchy remains: Ramos | Dunn | Morris.

September 25, 2015
Miami Marlins — Carter Capps — one of the five toughest pitchers David Ortiz has ever faced — threw a successful simulated game on Thursday and could return as early as this weekend.

Hierarchy remains: Ramos | Dunn | Morris.

August 4, 2015
Miami Marlins – Carter Capps has recently become a target of baseball writing’s OG, due to the success he’s having with his probably-should-be-illegal delivery. But Bill James won’t have to fret about Capps for at least the next few weeks — the otherworldly set-up man has been placed on the DL.

Updated hierarchy: Ramos | Dunn | Morris.

June 16, 2015
Miami Marlins – Carter Capps has been used in very high-leverage situations recently, including pitching the 8th inning in last night’s one-run game against the Yankees, striking out the side and picking up his third hold of the year. With the Marlins mixing and matching in the late innings, we think Capps has the best chance of running with the set-up man job. Sam Dyson, meanwhile, has been used more sparingly of late, and will bow out of our hierarchy for now.

Updated hierarchy: Ramos | Capps | Dunn.

June 10, 2015
Miami Marlins – Mike Dunn pitched the 8th inning ahead of AJ Ramos in a one-run game. Ramos couldn’t hold on to the lead, giving up a two-run walkoff bomb. Ramos has pitched well enough since taking over the closer’s role, but Dunn seems to have worked his way back into the late-inning mix, as this is his second straight 8th inning appearance.

Updated hierarchy: Ramos | Dyson | Dunn.

June 2, 2015
Miami Marlins – Former closer Steve Cishek was demoted to AA ball yesterday and is droppable in all but the deepest of leagues at this point. But meanwhile, another righty with an odd delivery is ascending in Miami: Carter Capps, who takes a Jordan Walden-esque hop off the mound before sending his triple-digit fastball towards the plate. His numbers in seven games since being called up from the minors: 0.96 ERA, 0.54 WHIP, 15 Ks and 0 BBs in 9.1 innings, and Dan Jennings is already using him in high-leverage spots while holding him out of games that Miami is losing (like yesterday). Jennings has also favored Mike Dunn as more of a LOOGY in recent weeks, and Dunn now seems lower on the list of relievers who would get a save when A.J. Ramos needs a night off.

Updated hierarchy: Ramos | Dyson | Capps.

May 30, 2015
Miami Marlins — Sam Dyson has been getting a lot of high-leverage looks for the Marlins under new manager (and record-breaking Jeopardy! champion) Dan Jennings. Dyson’s three-run meltdown on Wednesday didn’t discourage the skipper from calling on him in a tight spot on Friday and, unlike his own namesake, Dyson did not suck, not even a tiny bit. Up to now, Dyson was probably best-known for having his jaw broken by Chris Hatcher in a 2014 Nashville bar fight.

Updated hierarchy: Ramos | Dunn | Dyson.

May 22, 2015
Miami Marlins — A quick look at the box score would lead you to believe that Steve Cishek pitched pretty well Thursday night, tossing 1.2 scoreless innings. Dig deeper, though, and you’ll see that Cishek entered a tie game and allowed both inherited runners to score, coughing up yet another lead. We’re making note of it because GM-turned-manager Dan Jennings used the demoted Cishek in a tight situation, albeit in the sixth inning. Perhaps Jennings is trying to justify Cishek’s $6.65 million salary.

Hierarchy remains: Ramos | Dunn | Morris.

May 19, 2015
Miami Marlins – After taking the job, Marlins GM-turned-manager Dan Jennings declared A.J. Ramos the stopper for the floundering Fish, and his hold on the job got even tighter as the game progressed. After pitching the 9th inning in a tie game, he watched as Steve Cishek took yet another loss, giving up the game-winning run in the top of the 13th.

Hierarchy remains: Ramos | Dunn | Morris.

May 18, 2015
Miami Marlins – The Marlins fired Mike Redmond on Sunday after the team was 2-hit by Shelby Miller. Though A.J. Ramos’s role shouldn’t be affected too much, this wasn’t the most settled bullpen, and it’s possible that the new skipper — due to be announced this morning — will have a different idea about how to employ his best reliever. We’ll follow the situation.

Hierarchy remains: Ramos | Dunn | Morris.

May 14, 2015
Miami Marlins -A.J. Ramos picked up his first save as the head of the Marlins committee, pitching a scoreless ninth inning and striking out two. Dunn and Morris both got holds in the game, so the new committee is off to a great start. It’s a committee that won’t be adding Rafael Soriano, however, as the Marlins are no longer considering Soriano for their bullpen despite multiple reports earlier in the week.

Hierarchy remains: *Ramos | Dunn | Morris.

May 13, 2015
Miami Marlins – As we suspected yesterday, A.J. Ramos will get the bulk of the save opportunities in Mike Redmond’s newly-formed committee. Redmond will indeed mix and match, however, so Mike Dunn and Bryan Morris are also options to save games for the Marlins. In addition, the team is in talks with free agent Rafael Soriano, whose last save came on Sept. 21 against…you guessed it, the Marlins. Soriano’s agent, Scott Boras, has said that he is getting closer with “a few teams.”

Hierarchy remains: *Ramos | Dunn | Morris.
* = closer-by-committee

May 12, 2015
Miami Marlins – The Marlins will look elsewhere after Steve Cishek blew his fourth save of the season (and second in two days) in the wee hours of Tuesday morning. As we speculated yesterday, Mike Redmond is likely to employ a committee for the time being. A.J. Ramos is the most talented of his available options, though we expect Mike Dunn to get a share of chances as well.

Updated hierarchy: *Ramos | Dunn | Morris.
* = closer-by-committee

May 11, 2015
Miami Marlins – Steve Cishek blew another save on Sunday, and his ERA now sits at 8.18. But what has become less obvious in recent weeks is just who would replace him if he gets a break from closing. A.J. Ramos has the best ratios, but he hasn’t been used in a traditional set-up role at any point this season; instead, that job has mostly gone to lefty Mike Dunn, who got the 8th last night before Cishek blew the game. Mike Redmond hasn’t given any indication that he’s ready to make a move, but if Cishek is demoted, then perhaps a committee will be in order until someone distinguishes themselves.

Updated hierarchy: Cishek | Dunn | Ramos.

April 29, 2015
Miami Marlins — After a horrible outing on Monday and a sleepless night, Steve Cishek bounced back Tuesday to pick up just his second save of the season. He says his velocity is down “a tick” but that he “starts slowly during the first month of the season”. As April turns into May, Cishek owners hope he can pick up speed and avoid the Hot Seat.

Hierarchy remains: Cishek | Ramos | Dunn.

April 28, 2015
Miami Marlins — Steve Cishek coughed up three runs in the ninth inning on Monday, ruining Jarrod Cosart’s spectacular start. After the game, Cosart had his teammate’s back, reminding the media how effective Cishek has been in his relatively short career as a closer. With A.J. Ramos pitching lights-out in a setup role, however, Miami won’t stick with Cishek forever, especially given his atrocious trend line. Expect to see him discussed on the Hot Seat this week.

Hierarchy remains: Cishek | Ramos | Dunn.

April 25, 2015
Miami Marlins — Steve Cishek earned his first save of the year, lowering his ERA to 10.38 in the process. If you’re a Cishek owner, it’s worth noting that his absence would likely create a closer triumvirate of Mike Dunn, A.J. Ramos, and Bryan Morris. We think Dunn’s recent ineffectiveness would give Ramos the inside track at this point.

Updated hierarchy: Cishek | Ramos | Dunn.

April 11, 2015
Miami Marlins — It’s been a rough start to the season for Steve Cishek; the sidearmer gave up four runs in a Tuesday blowout, then blew Friday’s save in an outing that nonetheless brought his ERA back under 100. After the game, Cishek speculated that the team’s struggles may have been the result of “Zombie Night,” although the last time we checked, Kevin Gregg was pitching for Cincinnati.

Hierarchy remains: Cishek | Dunn | Ramos.

March 9, 2015
Miami Marlins – Steve Cishek is worried that he might get fined a few times for taking too long between pitches, but he’s still a very solid option for saves, especially for those who like closers without much competition. Mike Dunn is a perfectly respectable set-up man, but the lefty doesn’t have overpowering stuff. AJ Ramos, meanwhile, still walks too many guys. We do like this bullpen overall in terms of depth — they added Aaron Crow in the offseason, and Carter Capps has electric stuff, though he hasn’t put it all together yet. So if they can score a few runs, they should be able to bridge nicely to Cishek, who could match the 39-save performance he had in 2014.

Starting 2015 hierarchy: Cishek | Dunn | Ramos.
Holds candidates: Dunn, Ramos.

September 18, 2014
Miami Marlins — Bryan Morris hasn’t pitched in eight days and he might be done for the season with an injured groin. If Steve Cishek needs a break, Miami is likely to call on converted catcher (and potential cruiserweight champion) Chris Hatcher, who has been punching out hitters in Morris’s absence.

Updated hierarchy: Cishek | Hatcher | Ramos.

August 13, 2014
Miami Marlins — As we predicted on Tuesday, Bryan Morris got the call in lieu of Steve Cishek in Wednesday’s save situation. But after Morris put two men on, Mike Redmond turned to lefty Mike Dunn to face fellow southpaw Mike Adams, and Dunn wound up earning his first save of the year with a strikeout. Oh, and if it matters to you (we sincerely hope it doesn’t), Kevin Gregg is out for the season after surgery to remove bone chips from his right elbow.

Hierarchy remains: Cishek | Morris | Ramos.

July 25, 2014
Miami Marlins – The A’s finally sent ole’ Jim Johnson out to pasture prior to Thursday’s game. We initially weren’t going to mention this, but Johnson is somehow still owned in 13 percent of leagues. And, actually, there’s a small chance that this increases his relevancy again, as the Marlins were reportedly interested in acquiring Johnson as recently as a few days ago. If they sign him, and then decide to move Steve Cishek, then Johnson could potentially be in the mix for saves in Miami.

Hierarchy remains: Cishek | Morris | Ramos.

July 19, 2014
Miami Marlins — Kevin Gregg has been placed on the DL with right elbow inflammation.  The Marlins activated A.J. Ramos from the DL and he should split time with Bryan Morris in the 7th and 8th innings.

Updated hierarchy: Cishek | Morris | Ramos.

July 16, 2014
Miami Marlins – With Miami falling off the pace, going 10-20 since June 11, the team may be more willing to listen to offers for 27-year-old Steve Cishek from bullpen-hungry contenders like the Tigers and Giants. Kevin Gregg would probably fill in first, but Bryan Morris projects as the long-term solution. TRADE DEADLINE BUY: Kevin Gregg. 

July 10, 2014
Miami Marlins — Steve Cishek had a nightmare tenth on Wednesday night, entering with a two-run lead and giving up a single, a walk, a single, and a walk-off double. Although this is his second such meltdown in two weeks, he was working on a streak of 33 consecutive saves just a few months ago.

Hierarchy remains: Cishek | Gregg | Morris.

July 3, 2014
Miami Marlins — A.J. Ramos was placed on the disabled list, retroactive to June 27, with right shoulder inflammation. Bryan Morris hasn’t allowed a run since May, a run of 14 straight appearances, and he will maintain an important role in the Marlins bullpen.

Updated hierarchy: Cishek | Gregg | Morris.

June 26, 2014
Miami Marlins — We can’t hide from this anymore. Kevin Gregg, fresh from coaching Little League, is relevant again in Miami. Wednesday night, he pitched a perfect eighth in a one-run game, an enormous, bespectacled bridge to Steve Cishek. His vast (if checkered) closing experience, combined with Mike Redmond’s obvious willingness to use him in big spots, will make him the next guy up when necessary.

Updated hierarchy: Cishek | Gregg | Ramos.

June 24, 2014
Miami Marlins — Kevin Gregg collected his second hold of the season on Monday, and this one was far cleaner than his previous outing. He mowed down the Phillies on just 12 pitches in the eighth inning to keep Miami ahead, 2-0. It appears he may become part of the Marlins’ late-inning plans after all, but we need to see some consistency before anointing Gregg as the new eighth-inning savior.

Hierarchy remains: Cishek | Ramos | Morris.

June 11, 2014
Miami Marlins — Since arriving in a trade from Pittsburgh on June 1, Bryan Morris has been immediately thrust into higher-leverage spots for the Marlins, including four eighth-inning appearances in the last five days. His ascent will allow Mike Redmond to use Mike Dunn in more of a matchup role.

Updated hierarchy: Cishek | Ramos | Morris.

June 3, 2014
Miami Marlins – An old friend has returned to Miami, as the Marlins signed former closer Kevin Gregg to a minor-league contract. They plan to call him up after a couple weeks in the minors, but despite 33 saves for the Cubs last season, Gregg is not expected to factor into the Marlins’ late-inning plans.

Hierarchy remains: Cishek | Ramos | Dunn.

April 5, 2014
Miami Marlins – Brad Hand picked up a three inning save last night, but he still does not factor into the Marlins late inning bullpen plans moving forward.  No hierarchy change.

March 13, 2014
Miami Marlins — Win a bet with your bullpen-ignorant friends: Steve Cishek boasts the longest active string of successful saves, at 29. Ranked #17 in our preseason closer rankings.

March 11, 2014
Miami Marlins — Steve Cishek pitched admirably down the stretch for a lousy team, and he’ll open 2014 in the closer role. A.J. Ramos and Mike Dunn are the only other sure things in the Fish pen — unless you count the incorrigible Carlos Marmol. We don’t. Mike Redmond isn’t yet sold on Carter Capps, but the ex-Mariner could work his way into a high-leverage role on the other side of the waves. Starting 2014 hierarchy: Closer — Steve Cishek; Set-up — A.J. Ramos; 2nd in line — Mike Dunn.

August 9, 2013
Miami Marlins — Chad Qualls was awful for the third straight game, loading the bases without getting any outs. Mike Dunn relieved him and has been much more effective lately. Hierarchy change: Mike Dunn to Set-up, Chad Qualls to 2nd in line.

August 1, 2013
Miami Marlins – Steve Cishek got the night off on Wednesday, and Mike Dunn picked up a 4-out save in his absence.  Dunn and Chad Qualls will continue to share the 8th inning role.  No hierarchy change.

July 18, 2013
Miami Marlins – Steve Cishek and Mike Dunn are likely to remain Fish this season, although pending free agent Chad Qualls could soon be headed to, um, bluer waters. TRADE DEADLINE BUY/SELL: None. 

June 5, 2013
Miami Marlins — Steve Cishek remains on the Hot Seat in Miami after he blew his second save in seven chances, although a Seat gets only so Hot when your team is looking up at the 1909 Washington Senators.  If you have to own a Miami reliever, take stock of your life. No hierarchy change.

May 31, 2013
Miami Marlins – Mike Dunn has seen his ERA climb by nearly a point and a half over his last two outings, including an uninspiring 0.1 innings last night.  Since declaring closer-by-committee a week and a half ago, there’s been little clarity in who has the lead, given how rarely the Marlins fall into a 9th inning save chance.  Steve Cishek is probably still the best guy to own, if you only own one Marlins reliever, but given the lefty’s recent struggles, Mike Dunn has likely fallen behind Chad Qualls in the runner-up position.  Hierarchy change: Chad Qualls to Set-up, Mike Dunn to 2nd in line.

May 29, 2013
Miami Marlins – Mike Dunn entered in the eighth with a one-run lead and gave up three singles to tie the game; sent back out for the bottom of the ninth, he allowed two more singles and took the loss after Chad Qualls surrendered a game-ending hit. Those looking for clarity from this bullpen should prepare to wait two more weeks for the next save situation. No hierarchy change.

May 22, 2013
Miami Marlins – Marlins skipper Mike Redmond is prepared to use a bullpen-by-committee approach, naming Mike Dunn and Chad Qualls as potential ninth-inning options to complement the embattled Steve Cishek. Hierarchy change: Chad Qualls to 2nd in line, replacing A.J. Ramos.

May 19, 2013
Miami Marlins – Steve Cishek struggled after coming in with a man on 2nd and nobody out in the 9th inning against the Diamondbacks. He got 2 outs, but was lifted for set-up man Mike Dunn after a single and a walk. Dunn, who came in sporting a 1.77 ERA on the year, walked his first batter before closing the game out and leaving the bases loaded. The lefty is the best candidate to get save chances if Cishek is pulled from the closer role.  Steve Cishek to Hot Seat.

April 22, 2013
Miami Marlins – Jon Rauch faced six batters on Sunday and five of them reached base, and when the dust cleared, the Reds had plated eight runs in the inning and Rauch’s ERA had ballooned to 9.45.  Until he figures it out, the Marlins are unlikely to go to Rauch in high-leverage spots.  That duty will likely fall to AJ Ramos or Chad Qualls, the former of which has 16 Ks in 11.2 innings pitched thus far.  Hierarchy change: AJ Ramos to 2nd in line, replacing Jon Rauch.

April 8, 2013
Miami Marlins – After getting knocked around in a non-save situation on Friday, Steve Cishek blew a save on Sunday, allowing 2 runs and taking the loss against the Mets.  Cishek doesn’t have a ton of competition in the Miami bullpen.  Mike Dunn got a couple saves last year, but is mostly a match-up guy, while Jon Rauch and Chad Qualls have been around the block a few times and aren’t particularly imposing at this point.  If Cishek continues to struggle, though, the Marlins may have to give someone else a try.  Steve Cishek to Hot Seat.

February 24, 2013
Miami Marlins – Starting 2013 hierarchy: Closer- Steve Cishek, Set-up- Mike Dunn, 2nd in line- Jon Rauch.

September 19, 2012
Miami Marlins – Steve Cishek got knocked around on Tuesday night, eventually getting yanked after allowing three runs and only recording one out. Cishek’s ERA is now 9.95 for the month of August, pushing his season-long ERA up to nearly 3, which is probably where it should’ve been anyway, given his crummy WHIP (1.34). After Tuesday’s outing, he’ll be looking over his shoulder at Heath Bell, who the Marlins would probably like to see win the job back going into next season. Steve Cishek to Hot Seat.

August 17, 2012
Miami Marlins – Heath Bell pitched the 8th while Steve Cishek got the save in the 9th. A little over a week ago Manager Ozzie Guillen said that Bell would get another chance to close this season. However since those comments Bell has been used in the 7th inning once and 8th inning three times so Guillen has not been saving him for a possible save in the 9th. Cishek has pitched well as the closer and should continue in that role. Hierarchy change: Steve Cishek to Closer, Heath Bell to Set-up.

August 13, 2012
Miami Marlins – Prior to Sunday, Heath Bell had only given up 1 run since the All Star break, and he had lowered his ghastly ERA by nearly a point and a half. Ozzie Guillen had been impressed enough to say earlier this week that he’d be giving Bell another shot at closing. The Marlins haven’t had a save chance since Guillen made his declaration, but in the 8th inning on Sunday, Bell took a major step back, allowing 4 earned runs while only recording 1 out. Despite Guillen’s plans for Bell, Steve Cishek is now a great bet to get the next save opp. No hierarchy change.

August 12, 2012
Miami Marlins – Since Heath Bell supposedly regained his closer job a few days ago, the Marlins haven’t had a save opportunity. But even if they’d had one last night (they ended up winning by four), it wouldn’t have gone to Bell, who pitched in the 8th inning with the Marlins up by two runs. While this could’ve been a final tuneup before he re-enters the closer role, Steve Cishek is still certainly worth holding on to until Ozzie Guillen proves that he meant what he said earlier this week. No hierarchy change.

August 10, 2012
Miami Marlins – Just a day after Ozzie Guillen said that Heath Bell would be moved back in to the closer role, he sent Bell out for the 7th inning with the Marlins losing by two runs. Guillen saying one thing and then doing another is certainly nothing new, so Bell’s usage over the next few days will determine whether he has actually regained the job. No hierarchy change.

August 8, 2012
Miami Marlins – Ozzie Guillen said before Wednesday’s game that Heath Bell would be moved back into the closer role. “We’re going to give him another opportunity,” said Guillen to several media outlets. Steve Cishek has pitched quite well since taking over the role, and with Guillen also saying that he reserved the right to use other relievers in the 9th, Bell will begin immediately on the Hot Seat. But, in a rather stunning move, he’s back in as the Marlins’ closer. Hierarchy change: Heath Bell to Closer, Steve Cishek to Set-up.

August 8, 2012
Miami Marlins – Steve Cishek has been rock solid of late, and has gotten all but one of the save chances for the Marlins since the demotion of Heath Bell. Bell, however, has also pitched well recently, and was used to finish off the 8th inning ahead of Cishek on Tuesday. Hierarchy change: Heath Bell to Set-up, Mike Dunn to 2nd in line.

July 17, 2012
Miami Marlins – Mike Dunn pitched the 9th inning on Monday to pick up his first save of the season. Heath Bell pitched a clean 8th inning, and is still potentially in the mix for saves, but Cishek and Dunn have gotten the first two opportunities since Ozzie Guillen installed a closer by committee. Hierarchy change: Mike Dunn to Set-up, Heath Bell to 2nd in line.

July 12, 2012
Miami Marlins – The Marlins need bullpen help, but are several games under .500 and are unlikely to make any moves either way. They have former closer Juan Oviedo (Leo Nunez) returning from suspension soon, and will hope to rally with the staff they have. TRADE DEADLINE BUY/SELL: None.

July 10, 2012
Miami Marlins – Ozzie Guillen told The Dan LeBatard Show today that he would use a closer-by-committee after the All Star Break. Steve Cishek is the best candidate for saves, while Mike Dunn could see some opportunities against lefty-heavy lineups. Juan Oviedo (nee Leo Nunez) will also be in the mix when he returns from suspension. Hierarchy change: Steve Cishek to Closer, Heath Bell to Set-up, Juan Ovideo to Set-up (Suspended).

July 9, 2012
Miami Marlins – Heath Bell blew his 6th save of the season on Sunday. After the game, Ozzie Guillen told the Miami Herald that he stood behind Bell, but in typically cryptic fashion, also said that “I have to make a decision, a solution, it will be drastic. But I will do it. We’ll wait until the All-Star break, and I will pick whoever is better out there to do the job.’’ Should Bell get demoted, Steve Cishek stands to inherit the job. Heath Bell to Hot Seat.

July 3, 2012
Miami Marlins – The Marlins placed Edward Mujica on the DL over the weekend. Mike Dunn has pitched in the 8th inning in each of the last three games, and slides up to take his place. Hierarchy change: Mike Dunn to 2nd in line, Edward Mujica to DL.

June 8, 2012
Miami Marlins – Edward Mujica got knocked around on Thursday and saw his ERA rise to 4.74 as a result. Steve Cishek also surrendered a few runs in the game, but has been solid all season, with a 1.82 ERA. During Heath Bell’s well-documented struggles earlier this season, Mujica picked up 2 saves to Cishek’s 1, but Cishek has since passed him on the depth chart, and has set up for Bell three times over the past two weeks. Hierarchy change: Steve Cishek to Set-up, Edward Mujica to 2nd in line.

May 27, 2012
Miami Marlins – For the second straight game, Heath Bell was yanked after allowing two baserunners to reach in the 9th inning, and for the second time, the Marlins held on to win. This time, Randy Choate bailed Bell out for his first save of the season. After the game, Ozzie Guillen sounded generally supportive of Bell, but also told the Miami Herald that “Right now, it’s not working. I’m going to sleep on it and see if we come up with some ideas.” Bell remains on the Hot Seat, though due to his contract, it’s likely he’ll continue to hang on to the job despite an 8.47 ERA. But if he’s removed, Edward Mujica and Steve Cishek are most likely to benefit. No hierarchy change.

May 26, 2012
Miami Marlins – Heath Bell struggled in the 9th inning on Friday and was lifted for Steve Cishek, who got the final two outs and picked up his first save of the season. “Bell’s my closer,” Ozzie Guillen said after the game. “But I had a bad feeling.” Bell has pitched much better since winning the job back two weeks ago, but still hasn’t completely earned his manager’s trust. Heath Bell to Hot Seat.

May 17, 2012
Miami Marlins – Steve Cishek was the first man out of the pen on Thursday, and failed to get out of the 7th inning. Ever since throwing 52 pitches in a 3-inning appearance earlier this month, Cishek has been shaky (3.2 innings, 2 ER, 7 hits). Hierarchy change: Edward Mujica to Set-up, Steve Cishek to 2nd in line.

May 11, 2012
Miami Marlins – Ozzie Guillen before Friday’s game told several Florida newspapers that the club was better with Heath Bell in the closer role. While he dodged a question about whether Bell would be closing tonight, he then went on to say: “He’s our closer. Let’s see what happens when he is back there.” Guillen also said Steve Cishek would not be closing tonight. Hierarchy change: Heath Bell to Closer, Steve Cishek to Set-up, Edward Mujica to 2nd in line.

May 10, 2012
Miami Marlins – Steve Cishek blew his first save chance yesterday since being installed as closer. Prior to the game, he’d only given up 1 earned run in 14 innings, but with the Marlins 9th inning role still in flux, Ozzie Guillen could give Edward Mujica a shot sooner rather than later. Steve Cishek to Hot Seat.

May 7, 2012
Miami Marlins – As noted in yesterday’s Vulture Save Watch, Steve Cishek threw 52 pitches over 3 innings on Friday and was again unavailable on Sunday, so the Marlins went to Edward Mujica for the save in the 9th. No hierarchy change.

May 5, 2012
Miami Marlins – Heath Bell just blew his 4th save in 7 chances, prompting manager Ozzie Guillen to say after the game that he had do something about the closer role, and that he couldn’t wait around any longer. Steve Cishek has out-pitched Edward Mujica so far this season, and is in line to inherit the job. Hierarchy change: Steve Cishek to Closer, Heath Bell to 2nd in line.

May 4, 2012
Miami Marlins – Edward Mujica got the save Thursday afternoon, as Heath Bell was unavailable. Ozzie Guillen insisted before the game that Bell, despite a disastrous first month, is still the closer in Miami. No hierarchy change.

May 1, 2012
Miami Marlins – Heath Bell pitched in a non-save situation and was, again, terrible, allowing the Diamondbacks to score two late insurance runs. Scouts say his velocity is down, and a big contract can’t protect his job forever. Heath Bell to Hot Seat.

April 27, 2012
Miami Marlins — Another day, another debacle for big-ticket closer Heath Bell, who blew his third save in five chances with a 46-pitch, four-walk nightmare on Thursday. After the game, Ozzie Guillen gave Bell a vote of confidence as the Miami closer; it seems the Marlins have 27 million reasons to stay the course. No hierarchy change.

March 20, 2012
Miami Marlins- The new-look Miami (Vice) Marlins made a lot of offseason noise, including in the bullpen, signing Padres closer Heath Bell. Starting 2012 hierarchy: Closer- Heath Bell, Set-up- Edward Mujica, 2nd in line- Steve Cishek.

Dec. 15, 2011
Florida Marlins- The Marlins just gave a fat contract to Heath Bell, who will immediately assume the closer role. Hierarchy change: Heath Bell to Closer, Edward Mujica to Set-up, Steve Cishek to 2nd in line.

Sept. 26, 2011
Florida Marlins- Steve Cishek was summoned for 2 innings of middle relief last night. Though Cishek was used to close earlier in the year, this signals that the Marlins will turn to Edward Mujica for any save opps in the season’s final three days. Hierarchy change: Edward Mujica to Closer, Steve Cishek to Set-up.

Sept. 22, 2011
Florida Marlins- Leo Nunez has been suspended and placed on the restricted list, and is reportedly on his way back to his home in the Dominican Republic. The Marlins turned to Steve Cishek to close when Nunez was given a week off last month, and he will likely get first crack at the suddenly-vacant closer’s position, though Edward Mujica may also be considered. Hierarchy change: Steve Cishek to Closer, Edward Mujica to Set-up, Mike Dunn to 2nd in line.

Sept. 7, 2011
Florida Marlins- Steve Cishek was brought in for the 7th inning with the Marlins down by one run– the second time this week he’s been used in this fashion. The Marlins haven’t had a save opp in a while, but it’s pretty clear that Leo Nunez has his job back. Hierarchy change: Nunez to Closer, Cishek to Set-up.

Aug. 27, 2011
Florida Marlins- Steve Cishek pitched the 9th inning last night, recording the save against the Phillies. Nunez was well rested and ready to go, but McKeon still went to the young righty. Cishek to Closer, Nunez to Set-up, Mujica to 2nd in line.

Aug. 25, 2011
Florida Marlins- Setup man Edward Mujica got the call in the 9th with a 6-3 lead and gave up two runs; Steve Cishek came on in relief and got the save. McKeon gave Nunez a vote of confidence yesterday though, saying he didn’t pitch because of his Tuesday workload. No hierarchy change.

Aug. 24, 2011
Florida Marlins- Leo Nunez blew the save and has now given up a total of 9 ER in his last 3 outings. If he blows another one, McKeon could look to Mujica. Nunez to Hot Seat.